Free school books for primary school pupils easing Back to School burden on parents – Kehoe

Parents of children attending primary and special schools are feeling the benefit of free schoolbooks from September, a Fine Gael Deputy has said.

Fine Gael Education Spokesperson Paul Kehoe outlined details of the hugely significant funding package which has eliminated the cost to families for all schoolbooks, workbooks and copybooks at all primary and special schools within the free education scheme.

“This landmark funding package, totalling €50 million, was secured in Budget 2023 and fulfils Fine Gael’s commitment to have a first class education system,” Deputy Kehoe said.

“I am delighted that the delivery on this promise to ease the burden of back to school costs for families is now a reality for families. The scheme benefits more than 558,000 pupils nationally, who are attending approximately 3,230 primary schools, including over 130 special schools.

“This Summer, parents and guardians have one less back to school expense to worry about. They are also saving on time that traditionally would be spent going to suppliers to try to buy everything on the booklist.

“Schools now have the funding required to cover the costs of providing all these items well in advance of the start of the next school year. It’s important to also acknowledge that this provision, as well as easing the Cost of Living burden of families, means that every child will be equal in the classroom, with access to all the required materials which can and will only enhance their educational experience.

“With that in mind, it’s incumbent on the Minister for Education to now give consideration to rolling out the free schoolbook provision to include children attending post-primary schools,” Deputy Kehoe concluded.