Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

It is not my Department's policy to prohibit the practice of schools seeking contributions from parents as long as it is made absolutely clear that the contributions concerned are voluntary. The manner in which contributions are sought and collected is a matter for school management. However, their collection should be such as not to create a situation where either parents or pupils could reasonably infer that the contributions take on a compulsory character. I have no plans to alter this position provided schools ensure the contributions are sought in a manner that makes this clear to all concerned.

In regard to payments sought for photocopying services, a school may seek payment to cover the cost of photocopied or other such learning materials where the amount sought by the school is consistent with the costs involved and the level of materials provided. It is also permissible for a school to seek payments in respect of extra-curricular activities, provided such activities are not obligatory and individual pupils can choose whether to participate. No charge may be made, however, in respect of instruction in any subject of the school curriculum or recreation or other activities where all pupils are expected to take part.

Regarding possible regulations, the Deputy may be aware that I have recently launched a discussion paper on a regulatory framework for school enrolment which contains suggestions on how to make the process of enrolling in schools more open, equitable and consistent. While I do not propose to comment on the nature of any regulations that might result from this process, I draw the Deputy's attention to the fact that the issue of financial contributions is raised in the paper. The Deputy may wish to note that I am inviting interested parties to submit their views to my Department by 28 October 2011.

I acknowledge that our current economic difficulties mean that schools are under increased funding pressures and that for many schools, fund-raising is an important additional source of income. However, it is also important that schools are cognisant of the financial pressures that many parents are experiencing and that such fund-raising is carried out in a manner that is sensitive to these difficulties.

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