Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed an update from the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) that shows a 6% decrease in calls for support with back-to-school costs this year. SVP said this has been the second year in a row that back-to-school calls have decreased.
The Louth Senator said that this is proof the measures introduced by Fianna Fail in government and also called for a review into how parents faced that are faced with the high cost of technology such as iPads for school can be assisted.
She said: “I am deeply aware of the numerous costs faced by families upon the return of their children to school each September.
“In government, Fianna Fáil has introduced the free school book scheme, the reduced costs for school transport, the removal of exam fees at junior cycle and leaving certificate, the introduction of DEIS supports at a cost of €180 million and the roll-out of the hot school meals scheme to support parents within our schools.
“In particular, the Free Schoolbooks scheme for Primary and Junior Cycle students has had a very positive impact, helping families right across the country with the financial burden of back to school time.
“We want to go further in this year’s Budget and expand free schoolbooks to all Senior Cycle students, allowing every student the chance to thrive in our education system and helping them all to reach their full potential.
“I am calling for support with the often high costs of technology for students to be reviewed, particularly with parents being asked to buy additional resources as opposed to books. Budget 2025 must consider that the cost of technology for children can be prohibitive and place significant stress on families.
“There is also conflicting advice, as children are often told to limit their use of technology, yet parents are required to buy technological devices for school purposes.
“These parent contribution fees towards the use of technology contribute to the financial burden of back to school costs for families and we must do everything we can to assist with that burden.”
For further information reach out to Erin McGreehan.
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