I propose to take Questions Nos. 10, 18, 51, 53, 61, 91, 93 and 94 together. I am aware of the publication of The Cost of Free Education booklet by the National Parents Council.
As Deputies will know the day-to-day running costs of primary schools are discharged by making funds available by means of the capitation grant scheme and the contribution from local sources. The capitation grant is not intended to meet the operating costs in full. A local contribution towards school running costs equivalent to 25 per cent of the capital grant must be lodged annually to each school bank account.
On the matter of adequacy of the capitation grant generally, my Department are currently undertaking study of the recurrent costs of operating schools in the primary and post-primary sectors. I will be considering the existing rates of capitation grants in the light of the results of this study.
In addition to the capitation grants scheme my Department provide further assistance to primary schools in disadvantaged areas. The amount provided in 1992 under the scheme for schools in such areas is £1.6 million.