Written Answers. - School Capitation Grants.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:
120
Mr. Gilmore
asked the
Minister for Education
the capitation grant payable to primary and post primary schools in 1993-94 and for 1994-95; the capitation grants in the same years for schools designated as disadvantaged; if disadvantaged communities have to match the additional portion of the grant with an additional local contribution; and if she will abolish the local contribution.
As the Deputy is aware I have secured substantial increases in the capitation grant for primary schools over the last two years. The standard rate of capitation grant has increased from a level of £28 in 1992 to £33 in 1993 and £38 in 1994.
Primary schools in the disadvantaged areas scheme receive extra financial assistance, in addition to concessionary ex-quota teaching posts. The level of this extra assistance currently stands at £17 per pupil.
It is not a pre-requisite of the disadvantaged areas scheme that the community should match the additional grant paid with an additional local contribution. However this does not rule out the possibility of additional local contributions being made where communities are in a position to do so.
I have no plans at present to abolish the local contribution at primary level.
In pursuance of my policy of targeting additional resources at schools serving children from disadvantaged areas, a sum of £250,000 was made available in 1993 to alleviate the burden on certain primary schools in disadvantaged areas that were experiencing financial difficulties.
A standard rate of £150 per capita grant is payable in respect of recognised pupils in secondary schools. The system of capitation grants does not apply to vocational, community or comprehensive schools which are financed by a system of budgets.
For 1994, I am pleased to state that an increase of £2.768 million has been provided in the provision for the general running costs of secondary schools with effect from 1 January, 1994. The disbursement of these additional funds is under consideration and I will be making an announcement shortly. There is no requirement for a local contribution for post-primary schools.
