I propose to take Questions Nos. 317, 325 to 327, inclusive, 344, 353 and 354 together.
As the Deputies will be aware the funding arrangements for our schools, including funding of secretaries/caretakers, cleaning and insurance, have evolved in an ad hoc manner and reflect the sectoral division of our second level system.
I consider that the Blackstock report represents a comprehensive review of these funding arrangements, including the matter of equity of funding between the different sectors at second level. While further work is required to bring greater uniformity and cohesion to this aspect of the funding of schools, my priority is to focus on the issue of adequacy of funding.
In this connection I have already shown my commitment by establishing the school services support fund, which is a significant initiative in the funding of our schools. This funding initiative represents a new approach by the Department that supports the school development planning process. This process can only be enhanced if each school is given some flexibility in the deployment of its resources. While provision for support services, including secretarial and caretaking services, is a particular focus of this fund, schools are being given discretion as to how this additional funding is best utilised in the interest of their pupils and for the operation of their schools. A school with 500 pupils will now receive additional annual funding of £20 per pupil or £10,000, with a minimum payment for smaller schools of £4,000 per school. This fund will channel an additional £4 million to voluntary secondary schools each year.
In addition, the standard per capita grant was increased to £184 from £177 in 1999. It was further increased by £8 from September last to £192 and will be significantly increased by £10 for the next school year. For a school with 500 pupils, this amounts to an extra £12,500 per annum and a total capitation grant of £101,000 towards general expenses. An additional per capita grant of £30 per pupil is paid to disadvantaged schools, thereby bringing the total grant in the case of such a school with 500 pupils to £116,000.
My approach has clearly shown my commitment and determination to improve funding at second level and I intend to build further on progress to date in the light of available resources.
