Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to be very clear. The Government has been very cognisant of the demands placed on parents. She will be aware that this September the free schoolbooks programme will be rolled out in all our primary schools. We have had an expansion of DEIS with additional supports going into schools, and the hot school meals programme is being rolled out to our schools. School transport is another cost for parents. The Deputy will be very familiar with the fact that we have sought a considerable reduction at a cost of €50 at primary school level and €75 at post-primary level, with a maximum payment of €125 per family. Considerable efforts have been made by the Government to support families who are facing difficulties and that is across the board.

I want to be very clear about voluntary contributions. I was very clear when the €90 million in additional supports to schools was being made available. It is not at all preferable. I do not in any instance see why any parent should be asked to support a school with a voluntary contribution. The Deputy raised the point about schools finding it difficult to manage. If an individual school has an issue to manage, it is entitled to contact the financial support services unit, and schools do so. I visit schools the length and breadth of the country. The issue was acknowledged in the €90 million additional money made available to schools this year with regard to energy costs and the increase of 7.5% in capitation.

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