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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Oct 1998

Vol. 495 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Funding.

Bernard Allen

Question:

377 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will abolish the need for a local contribution in primary schools; and, if so, when this will occur. [20015/98]

Officials in my Department are currently examining all aspects of the local contribution. When that review has been completed I will be in a position to make any necessary decisions on the future of the local contribution.

My Department provides capitation grants towards the day-to-day running costs of primary schools. School authorities are required to supplement the capitation grant with a local contribution, which traditionally amounted to 25 per cent of the State grant. Since 1995 the local contribution has been frozen at £10 per pupil in the case of mainstream schools, and at £9.50 per pupil in the case of schools designated as disadvantaged. In effect, therefore, the required local contribution has already fallen well below the traditional 25 per cent.

I should point out that the State is obliged under the Constitution to provide for free primary education and to ensure that such education is available to children. This is achieved through the partnership between the State and local community which is expressed in the State grant combined with the local contribution.
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