Value for Money Reviews

Tuesday, 18 February 2014

Questions (257)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

257. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason for not publishing the value for money report on two-teacher schools; the persons who carried out the report; the cost of same; when he received the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7755/14]

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Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The value for money review of small primary schools was conducted by a Steering Committee, comprising civil servants from relevant Government Departments and was led by an independent external chairperson. The chairperson was paid the standard fee for chairing a Value for Money Review, namely €1,800 gross. The other committee members undertook the review work as part of their range of duties. The report of the review was received by me in April 2013. Due to the scope of the review, it has been necessary to consult with Government colleagues on the wide range of issues it raises. That consultation process is well advanced. It is my intention that the report will be published as soon as my Government colleagues and I have finalised our consideration of the report and its recommendations.