Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The code of practice regarding books is voluntary. There is no evidence to suggest it is reducing costs. One of the matters I have raised personally with the Minister and in the education committee is the need to look at the effectiveness of that voluntary code of practice. If it is not working, it should be put on a statutory basis. It must be made an enforceable code of practice.

With regard to school book rental schemes, I acknowledge that the Government finally has a policy that a school books rental scheme should be available in every school. On the subject of school books, one of the recommendations from the committee related to the use of workbooks. The use of workbooks should not be outlawed but it certainly should be reduced. They are a significant school book cost.

School uniforms are the third issue mentioned by the Minister. I do not accept that the Minister does not have the power under the Education Act 1998 to make recommendations which are binding on school boards of management in respect of the policy on school uniforms. The Minister used that Act previously for recommendations and regulations on mental health and bullying. The Minister has the power to make such recommendations. Previous Ministers have made recommendations on the issue of school uniforms.

The Minister has expressed the opinion that generic uniforms should become available. This is possible, but it will take political will on the part of the Minister to achieve. She must use her statutory powers to compel boards of management to act rather than making the wishy-washy statement that she wants parents to put pressure on boards of management. Parents are under enough pressure. As Minister she has responsibilities and powers, and she must use them.

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