Vol. 477 No. 6
85 Mr. Davern asked the Minister for Education the proposals, if any, she has to increase the rate of capitation fee per pupil to primary schools in view of the fact that many schools are unable to meet their basic running costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10090/97]
I regret that due to the level of competing demands on limited resources I am not in a position to increase the capitation grant at primary level for 1997.
I should point out, however, that since taking office I have made significant improvements in the level of funding for primary schools. The standard rate of capitatation grant has been increased from a level of £28 in 1992 to its present level of £45 per pupil, an increase of more than 60 per cent.
As Minister for Education, I have to consider how best to deploy available resources across the whole education spectrum. I must determine priorities and try to allocate resources to optimum effect. I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to seek further increases in the level of the capitation grant as resources permit.
