Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)

We all recognise that nobody can be immune from the austerity required to balance our books. However, does the Minister accept that rural schools are a vital aspect of their communities and, as such, we need to approach this issue sensibly? Other options for improving efficiency could be investigated. For example, his Department spends €2 million on issuing paper pay slips to staff. This is well in excess of the savings projected this year in respect of the loss of teachers in rural schools. I ask him to review the matter and put it to the schools to come up with local solutions. Each of these schools is unique and local solutions may reduce costs while also benefitting the community.

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