Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
112. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education the estimated number of children and families that will benefit from the free schoolbooks scheme in primary schools in counties Cork and Kerry for 2023-2024, respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31438/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI recently announced details of Ireland’s first national primary school book scheme, which will provide free schoolbooks, workbooks and copybooks, in recognised primary schools and special schools.
It ensures equity of opportunity in education, where all pupils are supported to fulfil their potential and reflects the importance this Government places on education. The scheme will benefit over 558,000 children and young people, across every county in Ireland including some 63,130 children in Co Cork and 16,224 children in Co Kerry. My Department does not hold data on the number of families of pupils in primary schools.
The total investment, of over €50 million, significantly increases the funding for school books currently provided to all recognised primary schools in the country. The implementation of the measure will build on the experience of the existing school book rental scheme which is available in the majority of recognised primary schools and on the free school books pilot provided to over 100 primary DEIS schools in recent years.
Schools have received €96 per pupil and the funding, based on pupil enrolment figures, was paid in April.
This ground-breaking, permanent measure will ease some of the financial burden facing families with the back-to- school costs.
