Schools struggling to keep up with running costs, says Cummins

Irish primary schools cannot be expected to survive on “inadequate” capitation grants that don’t come close to meeting rising running costs, according to Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins.

Cummins, who is a TD for Dublin South-Central and the party’s spokesperson on education, said cited a report from the Catholic Primary School Management Association (CPSMA), which found that a record number of schools have had to seek emergency financial assistance from the Department of Education this year.

A review of 90 schools found that, between 2019 and 2024, costs increased by between 60% to 70%.

“I have engaged extensively with principals, in my own constituency and across the country, and the consensus is clear – schools are underfunded and unable to meet basic operational demands due to rising costs”, Cummins said.

“Despite a very slight increase in capitation funding of around €30million, this is not enough to offset rising inflation, insurance premiums, energy bills, and general overheads.”

“In fact, a 70% failure rate in covering core costs was reported by primary schools over the past year,” the Soc Dems TD said.

“The Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) has called for a 20% uplift in both the capitation and minor works grants, noting that current levels have barely increased since 2010, despite mounting inflationary pressure.”

Cummins said, “it is no longer acceptable for schools to survive on threadbare capitation grants. Our schools require proper, sustainable investment that not only addresses day-to-day needs but also establishes buffers for unforeseen emergencies and allows for genuine enhancement of teaching and learning resources.”

“If we are to uphold our commitment to a have a high-quality, equitable education system, government funding must be increased to match actual cost pressures to allow schools to function, innovate and thrive.”