Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

The Deputy is asking me to do all I can within my power to alleviate the cost and I will do this. However, my power is somewhat limited. I have already had informal discussions with the National Parents Council at primary level in this regard and in the first instance, I recommend that it should mobilise the parents associations and parents' representatives on boards of management, at both primary and secondary level, to raise this issue with the school authorities. There is a very simple and practical formula that is available, that is, for the large suppliers to produce a generic range, which already happens. The Deputy is familiar with the school system and I note there are approximately five generic colours that are provided for school uniforms across the system. This could, in a highly competitive manner, provide those garments at a relatively cheap price, certainly much cheaper than what the bespoke school uniforms cost. All that would be required for the school to do would be to sell the emblem, badge or crest and for the parents to undertake that. However, I must stress such an arrangement must be made between the school authorities and the parents. I can encourage it and in response to the Deputy's question, I now do so. Moreover, I will again raise it formally. However, while nothing will happen for the forthcoming academic year, it is something that should be seriously considered for the next academic year after that.

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