Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Apr 1990

Vol. 397 No. 9

Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) VEC Funding.

Michael Bell

Question:

331 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Drogheda VEC has the lowest per capita student funding in the country based on the financial figure for the 1988 financial year, at £1,774,823 for two schools and 1,355 pupils; if the figures for the 1989 financial year show an increase or decrease in cash and percentage terms; if Drogheda VEC will receive equal treatment in 1990; the plans she has to improve this unjust allocation; the reason she has not adjusted this unfair anomaly; if she is aware that the cost of providing an adequate education in Drogheda is at least equal to all other VEC schemes and therefore the allocation to Drogheda should be equal to the average of all other areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

In determining the annual departmental grants to VECs my Department have regard to the range of services being delivered, the number of schools and pupils, the pay costs of authorised staff both academic and non-academic, and any special needs that may emerge from time to time. Moreover, in determining the level of departmental grant account is also taken of the level of income which the VECs may be expected to generate from various activities e.g. tuition fees, local contribution from the local authority. The 1989 grant to Drogheda VEC showed an increase over 1988. I am satisfied that Drogheda VEC is not being treated unfairly in the distribution of resources across VECs.