Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 7 September 2018
394. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to extend enhanced capitation services to children in second level as is the case at primary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36965/18]
View answerCapitation funding is intended to contribute towards the cost of heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, general up-keep and general teaching aids required in schools. Capitation grants are paid on a per pupil basis.
Special enhanced capitation rates are paid in respect of pupils with special needs who attend special schools or primary special classes dedicated to children with particular special needs. These classes have a lower Pupil Teacher ratio and as such the unit cost per pupil is higher.
However, at Post Primary level, enhanced capitation rates are currently only paid in respect of pupils enrolled in special classes for mild or moderate general learning disability.
The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education’s Policy Advice on Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (2016) included a recommendation to extend the enhanced level of capitation grant to post-primary schools with special classes on the same basis as primary schools to assist them with the increased running costs associated with these classes.
My Department has convened an Implementation Group with representatives of the NCSE, NEPS, the Inspectorate and representatives from other Departments and agencies to ensure that the Report’s recommendations are fully and appropriately considered.
While a number of the recommendations have already been partially or substantially implemented, work is planned on the implementation of the remaining recommendations.
I have asked my officials to prepare a progress report setting out expected timeframes for full implementation and I expect that report in the coming weeks.
