Quinn vows to cut school book bills [herald.ie]
- Published: 12 July 2011
EDUCATION Minister Ruairi Quinn is looking at book-lending schemes and cheaper uniforms in a bid to drive school costs down for parents.
The minister revealed that he has met with representatives of the St Vincent de Paul charity and the National Parents Council, and they will be looking at efforts to bring school costs down.
The minister made his comments in reply to Fine Gael Dublin Mid-West deputy Derek Keating who said parents can often face costs of almost €600 when their child is to attend school in September.
These include a suggested voluntary fee parents are asked to pay, photocopying fees ranging between €40 and €80, and between €100 to €300 for extra-curricular activities.
"When one factors in two, three or four children, one would have very little change from €2,000 for 2011-2012. It is not an exaggeration to say that many people find it restrictive," Mr Keating said.
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