Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Mar 1998

Vol. 488 No. 6

Written Answers. - School Caretaking Services.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

188 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if a full-time replacement caretaker can be provided for Scoil Treasa, Ballycullin Avenue, Firhouse, Dublin 24, in view of the fact that this school has 430 pupils and the former shared caretaker service was completely inadequate. [6832/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department provides funding towards the cost of caretaking services in primary schools under two separate schemes. Under the scheme for employment of caretakers which was introduced in 1979, my Department meets the full cost of salary and employer's PRSI. However, this scheme is being phased out as posts become vacant and the replacement of shared caretaker posts has never been allowed.

Under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress, PESP, a second scheme has been in operation since 1992 whereby my Department provides additional capitation grants for primary schools towards the cost of caretaking and clerical services. Scoil Treasa currently has a shared caretaker post with another primary school in Firhouse. My Department has been informed that the caretaker may retire in May 1998. Unfortunately, as the post in question is shared between the two schools, it will not be possible to sanction the appointment of a full-time replacement caretaker to Scoil Treasa. However, should the caretaker resign, my Department will provide both schools with a grant of £15 per pupil per annum, subject to a maximum grant of £7,500 to each school, towards the cost of caretaking services, in accordance with the current terms of the PESP scheme.