Government must do more to cut school uniform costs, Mitchell says

Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Bay North Denise Mitchell has called for urgent action to cut school uniform costs.

Speaking today, Deputy Mitchell said: “School uniform costs are far too high and are putting huge pressure on families’ finances.

“Families are already being hit by the cost of living crisis, as prices are spiralling and many simply cannot afford these back-to-school costs which can reach thousands of Euro.”

Deputy Mitchell says she has been in contact with families who are struggling to afford the back-to-school costs.

“I know families across Dublin Bay North are struggling to keep up with back-to-school costs and they need help now.

“Sinn Féin wants to cut the costs of school uniforms- which we know is one of the biggest costs for many families as they return to school this August,” she says.

“We see families here in Dublin spending hundreds of euro on school uniforms, tracksuits, shoes and other items of clothing every summer and the huge financial burden this causes families. Many will be worrying about how they will manage to pay that this year.

“Sinn Féin are committed to cutting back to school costs in terms of uniforms, books, school transport and across the board this year and in the coming years.

“Our Education spokesperson Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire TD has brought forward legislation in recent months to cut the costs of school uniforms, to ensure that every school has an affordable uniform policy and that no child is disadvantaged by not being able to afford a particular item, by ensuring that parents can buy these items in multiple retailers and that they are at an affordable price.

“This would make a real difference in cutting costs for families here in Dublin Bay North and ensuring they get a much-needed break from the cost of living crisis.

“We are urging the Government to support Sinn Féin’s legislation to deliver a much-needed break for families hit by the cost of living crisis. Families need urgent help with back-to-school costs now.”