Groundbreaking new scheme to eliminate the cost of schoolbooks in primary schools and special schools – Michael Moynihan

TD Michael Moynihan has today welcomed the details of a groundbreaking new scheme which provides free schoolbooks in primary schools and special schools.

More than 558,000 pupils enrolled in approximately 3,230 primary schools, including over 130 special schools, will benefit from the new scheme.  

This initiative will provide not only free schoolbooks, but also workbooks and copybooks easing the financial burdens facing families during back-to-school- time.

This funding will also provide schools with an Administration Support Grant to assist with the roll out and implementation of the scheme and to relieve the administrative burden on schools.

The Fianna Fáil TD said, “Fianna Faìil is the party of education, and we are committed to reducing the costs of education for families across Ireland. This permanent measure will ensure that parents and guardians will not be asked to buy or rent any school books, workbooks or copy books as of autumn 2023.

“By providing our primary school children with free school books, we are enhancing their educational experience, not just in the classroom but reaching out into the family home.

“Education is the great leveller and Fianna Faìil has always supported education to ensure better opportunities for children and their families.”

This new scheme means that:

·         Schoolbooks, workbooks and copybooks will be provided for all pupils from schools

·         There is no need parents or guardians to buy or rent these items

·         Schools will be provided with sufficient funding to cover the costs of providing these items

·         Schoolbooks are the property of the school and must be returned at the end of the school year.

·         Schools will be provided with additional administration support.

The Department has published guidance for schools and information for parents on how the new scheme will operate. gov.ie/primaryschoolbooks