asked the Minister for Education whether any consideration has been given to increasing the grants paid to secondary schools in respect of pupils pursuing the intermediate and leaving certificate courses; and, if so, with what result.
79.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Secondary School Grants.
78.
asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to increase capitation grants to secondary schools; and, if so, on what terms.
81.
asked the Minister for Education the rate of capitation grant payable to secondary schools in 1926, and the amount and date of each subsequent increase therein.
With your permission, a Cheann Chomhairle, I shall take Questions Nos. 78, 79 and 81 together.
The full rates of capitation grant in 1926 were £7 for each junior pupil and £10 for each senior pupil. There was an overall increase of over 50 per cent in the rates of grant with effect as from the school-year 1953-54. I have recently notified the recognised school associations that they are now being increased by a further 20 per cent. I have also notified the secondary schools of a scheme of direct building grants.
80.
asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to provide building grants for secondary schools; and, if so, on what terms.
I refer the Deputy to my statement in the House on 20th February last that it was so proposed. The detailed scheme was issued to the schools on 27th April.
Grants under the scheme are payable to eligible schools in respect of a new school building or a major extension to an existing building. The grants will meet up to 60 per cent of loan charges on the sum raised by the school for building.