Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 April 2026
44. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Education and Youth her proposals to address the increased costs borne by parents putting through primary and secondary education in the 2026-2027 academic year. [29130/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand 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 should 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 am pleased to confirm that work has commenced on updating this circular, as committed to in Education Plan 2025, 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.
The current circular 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.
My department is also progressing the Education (Student and Parent Charter) Bill, which will strengthen engagement between schools, parents and students, including on issues such as school costs and uniform policies.
The overall aim of the Bill is to improve the level of engagement between the school community by inviting feedback, comment and observation from the school community and by further developing a listening culture in schools.
As Minister for Education and Youth, I want to ensure that all children and young people have the opportunity of access to education that empowers them to thrive and realise their full potential. The free Schoolbooks Scheme will benefit almost one million children and young people enrolled in recognised schools in the Free Education Scheme in 2026. It will help to ease the financial burden facing families at back-to-school time.
In Budget 2025, it was announced that the Hot School Meals Scheme (administered by the Department of Social Protection) would be extended to all primary schools, from September 2025. There are currently 3,200 schools and 550,000 children eligible for the Hot School Meals Programme.
These measures are all part of my department’s, and this Government’s, ongoing commitment to reduce financial pressure on families and ensure every student is supported to achieve their full potential.
