Cathal Crowe
Question:84. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Education if she will outline the options available to a school (details supplied) to assist with running costs. [21993/23]
View answerWednesday, 10 May 2023
Questions (84)
Written answers
My Department provides funding to all recognised schools in the Free Education Scheme by way of per capita grants.
The two main grants are the Capitation grant to cater for day to day running costs including heating, lighting etc. and the Ancillary grant to cater for the cost of employing ancillary services staff.
As part of the Cost of Living measures introduced in the Budget, €90 million has been provided in once-off additional funding to support increased running costs for recognised primary and post-primary schools in the free education scheme, in particular in dealing with challenges they face in the light of rising energy costs. This additional grant was paid at the rate of €75 per pupil at Primary level. Enhanced rates were also paid in respect of pupils with Special Educational needs.
In the context of the current cost of living crisis I would expect this very significant additional funding made available to schools is sufficient to meet increased running costs.
The school referred to by the Deputy has received a total of €78,312.48 in capitation related funding for the 2022/23 school year to date. This includes €15,640 in respect of the Cost of Living Grant, €26,714.10 in Capitation funding, €21,221 in respect of the Ancillary Grant and €14,737.38 in respect of Covid-19.
There is no provision for additional payments outside of those outlined above.
The Financial Service Support Unit (FSSU) is an important source of advice and is available to primary schools to assist on financial matters. Should the school require the services of the FSSU they may contact them directly at 01 910 4020 or by email at primary@fssu.ie. Details of the supports provided by the FSSU are available on their website.