Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
587. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on whether the welcome ban on enrolment applications fees in the forthcoming Admissions to School Bill 2016 will consequentially require a significant increase in capitation payments to schools; and if his Department has estimated the amount of funding schools on average and in aggregate will lose out on as a result of this ban. [28501/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraApart from those recognised fee-charging second level schools, recognised primary and post primary schools are precluded from charging school fees. No charge may be made, in respect of instruction in any subject of the school curriculum or for recreation or other activities where all pupils are expected to take part.
However, it is permissible for a school to seek payments in respect of extra-curricular activities provided such activities are not obligatory and individual pupils can choose whether or not to participate. My Department's Circular 0065/2010 clarifies certain charges that may be legitimately requested from pupils.
As the Deputy is aware the Education (Admission to Schools) Bill 2016, which was published on 6th July 2016 and will shortly proceed to Committee Stage, contains a provision prohibiting the charging of fees or seeking payment or contributions for an application for admission to a school or for the enrolment or continued enrolment of a student in a school.
The Action Plan for Education is aimed at making the Irish education and training service the best in Europe by 2026. This plan, which incorporates my Department's Strategy Statement as well as the Action Plan of Education outlines hundreds of actions, including publication and commencement of the Education (Admission to Schools) Bill 2016, to be implemented across 2016-2019.
Another one of the actions as part of the plan is to strengthen the focus on reducing school costs for parents by restoring capitation funding over a three-year period as resources permit.
