Mary White (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

Booksellers also face problems where schools change books at a rapid pace. However, there is a greater focus on the part of schools on changing books only where it is necessary to do so. Workbooks are being streamlined and some textbooks contain workbook pages, which decrease the expense for parents. I am happy to consider anything, including the Internet, that can cut costs and help parents and schools. Regarding the Deputy's question on America, it is my understanding that some states fund the purchase of books. We are not yet at that stage in Ireland but the Department would be happy to fast-track modern approaches.

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