Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
527. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of schools that have confirmed compliance with circular 0032/2017 regarding measures to reduce school uniform costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29723/26]
View answerThe current Circular 0032/2017 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 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.
Ultimately, decisions on school uniforms are a matter for individual schools and Boards of Management.
I can confirm for the Deputy that my department does not gather data on the implementation of Circular 0032/2017 at an individual school level.
I know that for many parents, the start of a new school year can be a financially stressful time - new uniforms, transport costs - all arriving at once.
That is why this Government has made affordability a central focus of our education policy.
Since the publication of Circular 32/2017, my department has made it clear that schools must take steps to ensure uniforms are affordable and accessible to all families.
These measures aim to make a real difference, but we recognise that more can be done.
I have committed in Education Plan 2025 to commence work to review Circular 32/2017.
I am pleased to confirm that work has commenced on updating this circular and the revised circular will put greater emphasis on reducing costs for parents.
A working group has been established and my department is working with the education partners to progress this matter.
