asked the Minister for Education whether he is aware that many school boards have not been in a position to paint schools since the introduction of the boards due to insufficient funds; and the action he proposes to take to rectify this situation.
Written Answers. - Painting of Schools.
50.
Mr. O'Leary
The capitation grant paid to schools is intended to meet the general maintenance and operating costs, including periodic painting. It is a matter for each board of management to decide its priorities in the matter of expenditure of the grant.
The amount of the grant available, including the local contribution, has risen from £7.50 per pupil in 1974-5, when the new boards of management were established, to £14.75 per pupil in the 1979-80 school-year. The amount of the grant for the 1980-81 school-year will be determined in the context of the approved Estimates for 1981.