Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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In March 2023 my Department introduced a groundbreaking new free Primary Schoolbook Scheme, that has provided funding directly to recognised primary and special schools to provide at a minimum, free schoolbooks, workbooks and copybooks to pupils.

More than 563,000 pupils enrolled in approximately 3,230 recognised primary schools, including over 130 special schools, have benefited from this new measure from September 2023.

This scheme requires that parents and guardians are not asked to buy or rent any schoolbooks, workbooks or copybooks while ensuring that primary and special schools retain the autonomy to choose schoolbooks and classroom resources that meet their curricular requirements.

Detailed guidance on the implementation of the scheme was published in March 2023 and funding issued to schools in advance of the start of the 2023/24 school year.

The scheme guidance for 2024/2025 is currently being finalised and has been informed by an evaluation of year 1 of the scheme and engagement with all relevant stakeholders.

Details of the scheme for the 2024/25 school year, including publication of the revised guidance, will be announced shortly.