Vol. 541 No. 4
436 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the concern of school authorities at the increase in insurance premiums and conditions by insurance companies; the additional financial burden on the school system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22588/01]
I am aware of concerns expressed by school authorities in relation to increased insurance costs and related conditions referred to by the Deputy. At primary level, schools' running costs have been traditionally met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants and the local contribution. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of primary schools, including insurance costs. The capitation grant has been increased substantially since the Government took office in 1997. It has been increased from £45 per pupil in 1997 to £75.50 per pupil in this school year. In addition a rate of £80 per pupil will apply in the 2001-2002 school year. This constitutes an increase of 77% over that period.
Children attending special schools and special classes attached to ordinary schools attract a special increased rate of capitation funding. For example, the special capitation rate applicable to children with a mild general learning disability is £278.50 for children under 12 years and £438.50 for older children. Children with autism attract a rate of £451.50. My Department allocates supplementary funding in disadvantaged schools at primary level through a number of measures. These include the disadvantaged areas scheme, the Breaking the Cycle pilot project and the new programme, Giving Children an Even Break. In the case of schools in the disadvantaged areas scheme, an extra £30 is paid per pupil in the form of capitation grants which covers heating and general running costs, equipment and materials and a home/school/community liaison grant for activities with parents. Schools in this scheme also qualify for a yearly refund of their television licence fee and a 95% grant for building projects. Pupils attending schools in the Breaking the Cycle scheme also attract the £30 supplementary capitation funding that is paid to schools in the disadvantaged areas scheme. Additional grants are also allocated in respect of materials and equipment. All the schools that are participating in the new disadvantage programme, Giving Children an Even Break, receive a special supplementary grant based on the levels of disadvantaged pupils in the schools, with a minimum payment of £750 to each school. Schools already in receipt of additional resources under the disadvantaged areas scheme or Breaking the Cycle will retain their entitlements under those schemes.
