Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 201: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some post primary schools require a deposit when a student's name is being considered for admission; if this is legal practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8524/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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At post-primary level, it is a fundamental principle of the Free Second Level Education Scheme that no charge be made in respect of:- (a) instruction in any subject of my Department's Programme for Secondary Schools; (b) recreation or study facilities where all pupils are expected to avail themselves of them as part of the school programme. (c) any other activity in which all pupils are required to take part.

Voluntary contributions by parents of pupils in recognised schools are permissible provided it is made absolutely clear to parents that there is no question of compulsion to pay and that, in making a contribution, they are doing so of their own volition. The manner in which such voluntary contributions are sought and collected is a matter for school management, however their collection should be such as not to create a situation where either parents or pupils could reasonably infer that the contributions take on a compulsory character.

I am aware that some schools do charge a booking fee when considering applicants for enrolment and where this is done it should be for no more than a nominal amount and refundable following a decision on enrolment.