Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will conclude on the initiatives already outlined to support parents. The free school book scheme, the reduced costs for school transport, the removal of exam fees at junior cycle and leaving certificate, the introduction of DEIS supports at a cost of €180 million and the roll-out of the hot school meals scheme are all initiatives to support parents within our schools. We acknowledge that we need to more in this space as we look to budget 2025.

Regarding the schools themselves, I acknowledge that we have made considerable progress but I do not underestimate or take away from the challenges that exist for school leadership. We have increased the capitation. As I have already outlined, we have ensured it has gone from €183 to €200 at primary level and from €316 to €345 at post-primary level. There is also enhanced capitation for our special schools. An addition €60 million has been provided to support schools with the additional costs they may have. The Department has an ongoing review of school income and expenditure in the context of future planning for schools. We will analyse the information we have and we will do what is necessary, particularly in the context of the upcoming budget, to support schools.

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