Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2015
226. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the estimated cost to the Exchequer of increasing the capitation grant to primary and post-primary schools by 2%; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33784/15]
View answer234. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost of 5% and 10% increases in capitation funding for primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33906/15]
View answer235. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost of 5% and 10% increases in capitation funding for secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33907/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 226, 234 and 235 together.
The last Budget included an increase in spending on education for the first time in recent years, amounting to additional funding of €60m during 2015. That increase has provided funding for 1,700 additional teachers and SNAs to be recruited for our schools, as well as funding important reforms. However, it was not possible to secure the funding which would be required to also increase the rates of capitation paid to our schools. I am aware of the impact budgetary decisions taken in our economic crisis have had on capitation and related grants to our primary and second level schools.
The detailed information sought by the Deputy can be gauged from the fact that each 1% increase in capitation and related grants would cost approx. €3.6m. (€1.9m at Primary Level, €1.7m at Second Level).
I am determined that education will be prioritised for investment in the coming years, and I believe that increasing the staffing and funding of our schools should be priorities for such investment.
