Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Feb 1999

Vol. 499 No. 5

Written Answers. - Capitation Grants.

Theresa Ahearn

Question:

120 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Education and Science the grants available to primary schools for the provision of library books and the maintenance of library facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3089/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department operates a scheme of grants whereby a per capita grant is paid to the chief librarian of the local authorities in respect of the number of national school pupils enrolled in each local authority area.

The local authority librarians select, purchase and deliver books to primary schools. The primary schools in their turn provide a lending and reference service to pupils. In many cases the local authorities supplement the Department grant.

The following table sets out the per capita rate and the overall allocation under this scheme in recent years.

Year	Rate of grant per pupil	Overall allocation
1994	51 pence	£257,000
1995	£1	£503,000
1996	£2	£952,000
1997	£2.08	£973.000
1998	£2.15	£973,000

I also made an extra grant of £4 million available to primary schools last December to assist schools to develop or improve their libraries. Under the terms of this scheme each primary school was allocated £1,000, with primary schools in the disadvantaged areas scheme allocated £3,170 each.

A working group is drafting guidelines for schools regarding the expenditure of funds for purchasing books. These guidelines, which will be sent to schools shortly, will be recommending that school authorities consult with the local library service before purchasing books. This should enable schools to avail of the expertise available in the library service on sourcing books and on book retention.

The guidelines will also recommend a range of information software, interactive books and audio books.

I am satisfied this initiative, in addition to the ongoing system of grants to local authorities, is an important step forward in improving the level of provision in this area.

The above provisions are aimed specifically at library services in primary schools. These are in addition to the normal funds available for the maintenance of schools and for capital works.