Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Mar 1993

Vol. 427 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Audio-Visual Aids Funding.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

187 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education the amount of money paid to national schools for audio-visual aids in each of the years from 1985 to 1992; the amount allocated for this purpose in 1993; the number of schools which have benefited each year from 1985 to 1992, the number expected to benefit in 1993; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

In the ordinary course, purchase of audio-visual aids forms a charge on general school operational costs. A scheme to assist specifically in relation to audio-visual aids was operated for a number of years up to 1991.

The amount of money paid to national schools for audio-visual aids under this scheme from 1985 onwards was as follows:

Year	Amount	No. of Schools
	£
1985	30,145	178
1986	40,627	237
1987	40,604	229
1988	39,732	230
1989	23,358	118

There were no grants paid in 1990 and 1991. The allocation in those years was used to purchase teaching aids for the "Cúrsaí Comhrá Gaeilge Series" in response to the demand from schools for them.