Vol. 505 No. 3
257 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to relax the financial constraints in relation to the free book scheme at first and second levels for recently widowed young people who take up part-time employment for therapeutic as well as monetary reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13495/99]
The aim of the book grant schemes in first and second level schools is to provide assistance towards the cost of school textbooks for needy pupils.
The book grant schemes are administered in schools by the principal teachers in a flexible way under the terms of the schemes and based on their knowledge of the particular circumstances in individual cases.
The schemes include provision for pupils from families who are dependent mainly on social welfare payments, are on low income from employment or are experiencing financial hardship because of particular circumstances in the home.
I would like to acknowledge the sensitive, responsive and resourceful manner in which management and staff of schools, particularly principal teachers, have operated the schemes to date and I have no plans to amend the schemes as they currently exist.
