Finian McGrath
Ceist:271 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on a query (details supplied); and if he will reinstate this grant. [4306/03]
Written Answers. - Physical Education Facilities.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:281 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the formula for calculating the amount of such grants as allocated to schools in 2002 in relation to the annual grant to primary schools to support the development of sport and physical education in those schools; the total cost of such grants to the Exchequer in 2002; if this grant has been cut in respect of 2003; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this is the only amount specifically earmarked by his Department for physical education in primary schools; the organisations he consulted before cutting the grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4493/03]
I propose to take questions Nos. 271 and 281 together.
In October 2000, my Department introduced an annual physical education grant for all primary schools. Since the introduction of the scheme, my Department provided in excess of €5.5 million in grant aid to primary schools under this scheme for schools to provide coaching or mentoring in connection with physical education or for the pur chase of resource materials associated with the provision of physical education. Materials and equipment purchased by schools in previous years will generally be available to them for the current year.
In 2002, primary schools designated as disadvantaged schools received a grant of €1,270 while other recognised primary schools received a grant of €635. Approximately €2.4 million was allocated to schools in 2002 under this scheme. In the light of the current budgetary constraints, I decided to withdraw payment of the grant for 2003. I will keep the position under review for future years.