Immediate crisis averted

"Principals are relieved that the immediate crisis around the payment of large water charges by primary schools has been abated." said Larry Fleming, President of the Irish Primary Principals' Network. "IPPN welcomes today's announcement from the Taoiseach that schools should hold off on paying any water charge invoices for the moment. Principals are relieved at this development and await the clarification promised during the Christmas holiday.

"We hope that the long-term solution for water charges will recognise the unique position of primary schools. Principals have long been calling for proper funding for the basic running costs of our schools. The water charges issue has highlighted this chronic underfunding." said Mr. Fleming. "Doubling the capitation grant for primary schools would mean an increase of less than one percent in the overall education budget."

Ends

Notes for editors.

• The capitation grant to primary schools is currently €163 per child. This will rise to €178 in 2008.
  
• IPPN research suggests that this provides approximately 50% of the real cost of running a school.
  
• To increase this funding to the same that applies for children in second level schools would cost approximately €70M in a full year.
  
• This would represent an increase of less than three quarters of one percent (< 0.75%) on the overall education budget.

Ends

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MEDIA CONTACT:

John Curran, PRO - 087 231 4259
Emai: pro@ippn.ie
Support Office: 1890 21 22 23 info@ippn.ie
www.ippn.ie

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IPPN - QUALITY LEADERSHIP, QUALITY LEARNING

Who we are?
Irish Primary Principals' Network
Representing over 6,000 Irish Primary Principals and Deputy Principals
Independent, professional association of school leaders
Established in 2000

What we do?

Represent our members on professional matters
Influence education policy
Facilitate school leaders' professional development
Deliver a range of practical supports and services
Foster a culture of professional leadership