asked the Minister for Education if he is satisfied that the moneys available to national schools are sufficient to enable them to meet, together with the local contribution, all foreseeable, and reasonable expenses in relation to heating, cleaning and maintenance during the coming winter.
Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - National School Financing .
31.
: The substantial increases in the level of capitation grants made by the present Government has meant that the amount available, including the local contribution, has risen from £7.50 per pupil for the 1976-77 school year to £14.75 per pupil in the 1979-80 school year.
Payment of the grant for the 1980-81 school year will not arise before January 1981, and the amount of this grant will be determined in the context of the approved Estimates for 1981.
: Is the Minister aware that even at this stage and despite the money increases given in the period he has identified, there is considerable concern among managers that they will have to close down schools after Christmas if they do not get more money?
: I do not think there will be any need to close down any school.