Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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108. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her views on Barnardos research stating that an extra €103 million per annum would ensure free primary education for all school children; her plans to deliver this important strategic investment in education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25699/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I am aware of the research referred to by the Deputy.

The Government's focus in recent years has been on stabilising the country's finances so as to ensure that funding could continue to be provided for the provision of essential services such as health, education and social protection. This is the best way of protecting and improving services. A key priority for funding at primary level is catering for our rising demographics so that every child has a school place.

I do recognise the need for further investment at primary level in particular to improve capitation funding to help schools with their day to day costs. In the last Budget, I was able to secure the first increase in education spending in recent years. I am determined to continue pressing the case for increased investment in education in the forthcoming budget.