Education Costs

Thursday, 3 July 2025

Questions (227)

Ken O'Flynn

Question:

227. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware that despite the Department’s circulars advising schools to reduce the cost of school uniforms by avoiding the use of branded or crested items, many primary and secondary schools continue to require expensive branded uniforms that can only be purchased from a single designated supplier, thereby limiting affordability and competition; and if she will confirm what enforcement mechanisms or follow-up actions are in place to ensure schools comply with the Department’s cost-reduction guidelines. [36853/25]

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Written answers

Minister for Education and Youth

Decisions on school uniforms are a matter for individual schools and Boards of Management.

My department issued Circular 0032/2017, which sets out the principles of cost-effective practice to be adopted by schools to reduce the cost of returning to school.

Under these measures, schools were advised that they should select school uniform items which are generic and can be purchased from a range of retailers. Only "iron on" or "sew on" crests should be used.

Schools should provide parents with a list of all required items and indicate the likely costs of these required items at best value stores. Where an exclusive supply arrangement applies, it should be tendered for regularly. Schools should also consult with parents as to their views on how to reduce costs.

I have committed in Education Plan 2025 to commence work in 2025 to review Circular 32/2017. A revised circular will put a greater emphasis on reducing costs for parents.