Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Dec 1997

Vol. 483 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Clerical and Caretaking Services.

Seán Power

Question:

476 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the concern of boards of management throughout the country at the level of remuneration being paid to national school secretaries and caretakers; and if he will increase the pay grants in view of the fact that there has been no increase during the past five years. [21065/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the scheme of additional capitation grants to schools in respect of clerical and caretaking services which was introduced under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress in 1992.

I am aware of the concerns expressed by some boards of management at the level of assistance provided under this scheme. I would point out however, that the priority has been to extend the scheme in the first instance to schools which have no caretaking or clerical provision. I can assure the Deputy that I remain committed to improvements in the provision of additional assistance to schools for caretaking and clerical services.