Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 635: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to increase day-to-day funding for schools in real terms and double the capitation grant for primary schools. [28684/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

All Programme for Government commitments to improve public services including those relating to capitation grants are contingent on the economic and budgetary environment and the need for prudent expenditure and fiscal management. The commitment in relation to doubling the capitation grant to primary schools can only be looked at and considered in the context of the overall economic and budgetary position that might prevail in the coming years and the competing priorities for available resources.

The need to control public expenditure will present particular challenges in the context of framing the 2009 estimates. I want to assure the Deputy that I will be mindful of the funding pressures on schools during that process.