Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 October 2019
103. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to increase funding and capitation grants for primary schools which have not been increased since being cut during the downturn. [43669/19]
View answerThis government has increased the capitation grant in each of the last two budgets.
I understand the need for improved capitation funding and I am pleased to have been able to provide for a further 2.5% increase in standard capitation funding for primary and post-primary schools that will apply from the start of the 2020/21 school year. This builds on last years 5% increase in capitation announced in budget 2019.
In addition to the increase in standard capitation, the enhanced rates of capitation payable in respect of students with Special Educational Needs will be increased by 7.5% from the start of the 2020/21 school year. The combined increases given in 2019 and 2020 mean that circa 40% restoration will be achieved.
All schools have received the benefit of the capitation increases awarded to date. It is my intention to seek funding for further capitation increases in future budgets.
