asked the Minister for Education whether in view of the general increase in the cost of living and, in particular, in the cost of flour during the period since 1957 he will consider increasing the amount of the grant per child paid to industrial schools, which has stood at £2 5s. per child since 1957.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial School Grants.
26.
The rate of capitation grants to industrial schools was increased by 50%, that is, from 30/- to 45/-, in 1958. As an application received some time ago from the Association of Resident Managers of Reformatory and Industrial Schools for increased grants is at present under consideration and as I cannot anticipate what the outcome will be, I am not in a position to make any statement on the matter.
27.
asked the Minister for Education whether he will consider fixing a set grant towards repairs and improvements to industrial schools.
The grants paid in respect of children under detention in industrial schools contain an element relating to the cost of improvements and repairs of the residential portions of the buildings. Allowance is accordingly made for such expenditure when arriving at the rate of grant payable.
In addition, the normal national school building grants are payable in respect of such portion of the premises as may be used for national school purposes.
Accordingly, I can see no reason for taking action as suggested by the Deputy.