Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2015
242. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost of increasing the capitation fees paid in respect of voluntary second level schools by 10%; and by 20%; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33914/15]
View answerThe 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 on voluntary second level schools. Each 10% increase in capitation and related grants for voluntary secondary schools would cost approx. €9m. 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.
