School Textbooks

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

Questions (1279)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

1279. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the projected cost to the State for introducing a completely free book scheme for primary school students that would not require payment of a rental fee by parents; the projected cost to the State of introducing a completely free book scheme for secondary school students that would not require payment of a rental fee by parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33520/14]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The information sought is not readily available to my Department, however one estimate from publishers' sources suggests that the Irish school book market is worth approximately €60 million per annum.

My Department provides some €15 million in book grants annually to primary and secondary school students and it would cost an estimated €45 million to cover the full cost.

In addition Budget 2014 provided funding of €5 million for three years to support the establishment of book rental schemes in primary schools that did not operate such schemes

Questions Nos. 1280 and 1281 answered with Question No. 1278.