Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome all the witnesses and thank them for their contributions. I acknowledge the various staff members within schools. I see the contribution made by SNAs, caretakers and school secretaries over the years in my own constituency of Sligo-Leitrim. I have been approached by quite a number of them over the years.

My first question is for Mr. Pike and concerns the role of Fórsa and the Department with regard to pay arrangements and grant funding for secretaries and caretakers. While Fórsa may have arranged meetings with the Department, can Mr. Pike indicate if that is the case?

Regarding ETB schools, the recent announcement was welcomed the length and breadth of the country. A total of 58 schools will benefit immediately from the announcement made during the week. I know there are a number of schools in that scheme that will continue. This concerns additional staff in these schools. There are many other areas where we have heard from Fórsa. I have heard about many people who are working extremely hard such as cleaners, caretakers, secretaries and SNAs. Is there a review regarding the position of all of the staff?

Can somebody elaborate on the subject of capitation grants? I was of the opinion that this money was paid into the schools. Can Ms Carton elaborate on that regarding capitation grants?