I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 226 together.
The information requested by the Deputy is not available as my department is not accountable for funding provided to schools outside of the funding provided by this department.
However, under the Education Act 1998, Boards of Management must keep records of all monies received and expended. In line with Circulars 0060/2017 and 0002/2018, all recognised schools (Primary, Voluntary Secondary, Community & Comprehensive) must:
- Prepare annual accounts in the format specified by the Financial Support Services Unit (FSSU). The FSSU have devised a Chart of Accounts which incorporates codes where all income and expenditure is classified accordingly.
- Submit these accounts online to the FSSU.
Schools are obliged to treat any contributions from State bodies as restricted income where conditions apply, maintaining clear documentation and align with FSSU guidelines for the annual financial statements. The FSSU can advise individual schools on how to classify particular items of income or expenditure.
As per DPER Circular 0013/2014 all grantors should notify the grantee of the purpose of the funding and the terms and conditions under which the money will issue, to ensure that the grantee is fully aware of their responsibilities.