Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
498. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the estimated cost of increasing the Summer Programme provision by 10%, 20% and 50%, respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45668/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDetails of the 2026 Summer Programme were communicated to all schools on the 6th May 2026. As in 2025, the programme will be underpinned by funding of €62 million to ensure its continuation. Between 2021 and 2024, funding of €40 million was allocated annually to the Summer Programme. The level of funding being provided represents a 55% increase on previous allocations, and this funding will be fully utilised to meet the needs of the most vulnerable children.
All schools have been offered the opportunity to run a school-based programme for children with the most complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.
Where a school does not intend to run a school-based programme or there is no place on the programme for an eligible child, schools were invited to make an application for the home-based programme.
The estimated costs of increasing the budget as suggested by the Deputy would be:
|
Percentage increase |
Total Cost |
|
10% |
€68.2m |
|
20% |
€74.4m |
|
50% |
€93m |
