Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 613: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his plans to introduce a book loan scheme so that parents could simply borrow school books instead of having to purchase them; the estimate of the amount of start-up capital that would be required to set up such a system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7990/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I have no plans to introduce a general book loan scheme, as suggested by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has not estimated the cost of introducing such a scheme.

The Deputy will be aware that the Renewed Programme for Government provides for funding to be made available to allow schools to provide grant assistance for books. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that €7.65m of additional grant support has been made available as a result of the Budget for 2010. This is in addition to the €7m that was allocated for books to Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) schools in 2009, €2 million of which was allocated in the form of an increased grant targeted at supporting the establishment, development and ongoing operation of book loan rental schemes.

I have consistently said that it is my intention to streamline and rationalise the different grant schemes that provide finding to primary and post-primary schools, both for ease of administration and to ensure that school management has greater autonomy over the funding provided.

My officials will be consulting with the management bodies to consider the details of how these funds will be channelled to schools having regard to the desirability of streamlining grant payments. Schools will be advised of the arrangements following this process.

I have consistently urged schools to implement book rental schemes, which are the most effective means of lowering costs for parents and ensuring that books are recycled. I will continue to encourage schools to use this funding to establish book rental schemes.