Extend free books to secondary schools

A local councillor is calling for the free school books scheme to be extended to secondary school students.

The topic is one of several said to be under consideration by Minister for Education, Norma Foley, ahead of the upcoming Budget.

The free books scheme for primary schools currently costs €53m, with schools permitted to buy textbooks, copy books and workbooks for pupils.

With the rampant rise in the cost of living, back-to-school time can often be a “particularly expensive time for families. The back-to-school allowance is a very welcome measure but it is limited,” said Fianna Fáil's Áine Smith, speaking at the recent monthly meeting of Cavan County Council.

Cllr Smith told the chamber that there had been “universal welcome” for Minister Foley’s introduction of free schoolbooks in primary schools this year, and she said the extension of free school books at secondary level “would be welcomed by parents who have very substantial costs each August and September time”.

Cllr Smith added: “Parents shouldn’t have this additional pressure. Under no circumstances should children ever be deprived of having all the essential textbooks, copybooks and stationery for their education.

“As I have said before, with the rise in the cost of living, the introduction of free schoolbooks would be a direct benefit for all the households with school-going children.”

The motion was supported by Cllr Smith's party colleague, Clifford Kelly, who described the motion's proposed outcome as “fit and right”.

There was support too from Patricia Walsh (FF) and Independent Brendan Fay.

Fine Gael's TP O'Reilly and Madeleine Argue also backed the motion, while Cathaoirelach Philip Brady described it as a “brilliant idea”.