Senator Aisling Dolan - Strong Voice, New Vision.
The extension of free primary school books for school children from September is a great boost for families in Roscommon.
Nationwide, more than 563,000 pupils will benefit from this important scheme in over 3,227 schools, including 138 special schools.
Fine Gael Seanad spokesperson for Education, Senator Dolan stated
“Fine Gael in government is working to reduce the cost of education for families in Roscommon and across the country.
“I know how stressful school and college costs can be for families. The primary school free book scheme removes the cost of books, copybooks and workbooks for hundreds of thousands of families.
“This year, it will be also extended to families with children in secondary school too, up to Junior Cert year. I’d like to thank school staff for their support of this measure”
“To also welcome new Minister for Special Education and Inclusion, Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton from the West who is ensuring all of these supports are also available in special schools. To acknowledge the work and commitment of former Minister of State Josepha Madigan.
“Through the Department of Social Protection and Minister Heather Humphreys the Hot School Meals programme now includes over 2,000 schools so more parents don’t have to worry about the lunchboxes every morning . Children can choose lunch from an app and there is lots of positive feedback from schools and teachers on the success of the programme. From this month of May, the increase in Child Benefit payment to age 19 for students in full-time education is also welcome news for families as children are starting school later with additional pre-school supports.
“Fine Gael is reducing college fees and increasing the student grant. This is all aimed at ensuring we can put more money back in your pocket and give children the best start in life.”
The scheme means no parent will be asked to purchase any schoolbooks, workbooks, or copybooks up to Junior Cert. Funding will issue to schools this month to allow schools adequate time to prepare for the upcoming school year. Schools will also be given a grant to assist with the additional work required to implement the scheme.
Minister for Special Education Hildegarde Naughton said:
“Fine Gael is working to dismantle any barriers to accessing education because we believe in equality of opportunity for everyone.
“Education gives every child an equal start in life. By removing the cost of books and school meals, we are ensuring every child can access school and their parents do not have to worry about the significant cost it can bring.”
