Vol. 432 No. 1
33 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education the unit cost for students of secondary, vocational and community/comprehensive schools as determined by the most recent unit cost study carried out by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
42 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education when the unit cost study on capitation funding for schools will be published; the level of funding which in her view is necessary to properly finance schools; if all recommendations of the study will be acted on; and the manner in which the recommendations will be implemented, especially in the area of capitation funding.
57 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Education the unit cost for students of secondary, vocational and community/ comprehensive schools as determined by the most recent unit cost study carried out by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
72 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Education the unit cost for students of secondary, vocational and community/ comprehensive schools as determined by the most recent unit cost study carried out by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
81 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education the unit cost for students of secondary, vocational and community/ comprehensive schools as determined by the most recent unit cost study carried out by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 33, 42, 57, 72 and 81 together.
The unit cost study assembled a considerable body of factual data on the current expenditures of primary schools. Because of the variety of school types and sizes, of expenditure headings and of school programmes involved, the study is a complex one and requires careful consideration. The study is being examined at present and the data it contains will form the basis of further discussions on school funding with school managements. As indicated the study is largely one containing factual data and comment and does not make any recommendations either in regard to unit costs per pupil or otherwise.
The grants towards running costs of schools is determined each year in the context of the annual Estimates having regard to available finances.
