John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 198: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the capitation fees paid to various types of national schools; his views on the claim by gaelscoileanna that they are treated unfairly vis-a-vis other schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18346/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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Primary schools' running costs are met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of schools which would include heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, painting, teaching aids and other miscellaneous charges.

The primary school capitation grant has been increased substantially in recent years. Since 1997 the standard rate of capitation grant has been increased from €57.14 per pupil to €163.58 with effect from 1 January 2007. This represents an increase of over 186% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 1997. Furthermore, enhanced rates of capitation funding are paid in respect of children with special educational needs who attend special schools or special classes attached to mainstream schools. The current rates range from €418 to €805 per pupil.

The standard rate of capitation grant is paid to all primary schools except Gaelscoileanna located outside of Gaeltacht areas which receive an additional €25.39 per pupil over and above the standard rate grant. As these Gaelscoileanna receive this additional funding per pupil, I do not see them as being treated unfairly compared to other schools.

Under the new Programme for Government, we are committed to doubling the standard capitation grant for primary schools over the next five years. Grants to schools for the employment of secretaries and caretakers will also be increased significantly.