Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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156. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to introduce a defined timeframe for all schools in relation to the payment of both the capitation and minor works grants in order to allow schools operate their budgets efficiently; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that schools are not allowed to go into a bank overdraft situation therefore if payments of grants are delayed this puts them in an impossible position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47804/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware my Department issues capitation related grants to schools in instalments throughout the school year. The following are links to the most recent circulars published on my Department’s website in relation to capitation grants which includes details of the timing of payments:

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The position in relation to the Minor Works Capital Grant for the 2017/2018 school year is that this will be considered in the context of my Department's overall capital position over the coming weeks.

Overdrafts must be approved by the Patron, in conjunction with Trustees (in schools where there are Trustees) where required, and should be avoided except for limited periods, and where the Board is satisfied that the overdraft or debt can be cleared by the Board.

Good budgeting by Boards of Management should help ensure that funding and grants received during the year are managed to cater for costs arising throughout the school year.