Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the details of the groundbreaking new scheme announced by the Minister for Education, Deputy Foley, this morning. There was information previously in the budget but not the finer details of the scheme, which will provide free schoolbooks in primary schools and special schools.

More than 558,000 pupils are enrolled in approximately 3,230 primary schools, including over 130 special schools, which will benefit from the new scheme. This initiative will provide not only free schoolbooks but also workbooks and copybooks, easing the financial burdens facing families during back-to-school time. The cost of living is currently a significant challenge. I know from talking to families across County Galway that this measure will make a significant difference and be of significant help to people. When Fianna Fáil decided to go into government, education was a key area in which we wanted to introduce significant reforms, which have long been a hallmark of the Fianna Fáil party. I am delighted to see the tradition is continuing under the Minister, Deputy Foley. The investment of over €50 million significantly increases the funding for schoolbooks currently provided to all recognised primary schools in the country and delivers on the commitment in the programme for Government to extend the free schoolbook pilot scheme currently in more than 100 primary schools in the DEIS programme. This scheme will ensure that parents and guardians will not be asked to buy or rent any schoolbooks, workbooks or copy books from September 2023. There are still significant challenges facing the country and areas where we must do more but it is important that the programme for Government commitments are honoured. This is another one which will now be welcomed by all.