Vol. 577 No. 3
58 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the proportion of funds that non-State schools are realistically expected to raise themselves as a proportion of State support; his views on whether the likes of Lucan Educate Together should have to pay, for example, the full costs for insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30960/03]
The school referred to by the Deputy is a recognised primary school and attracts funding in the same way as all recognised primary schools. Responsibility for arranging insurance cover on school property and against public liability is a matter for the managerial authorities of primary schools. Schools receive capitation funding from my Department and it pays the insurance.
Capitation grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of national schools. This includes heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, painting, teaching aids and other miscellaneous charges. Since 1997 the standard rate of capitation grant has been increased from £45 or €57.14 per pupil to €111.58 in the 2002-03 school year. Recently I announced that the grant will be increased by a further €10 in 2004 and represents an increase of almost 113% since 1997. I remain committed to further improving the funding position of primary schools in the light of available resources.
