In a recent announcement (Circular Number: 0056/2023), the government has allocated €60 million to support increased school running costs as part of the cost of living measures in Budget 2024.
The €60 million cost of living measure will be disbursed in two installments to recognized Primary and Post Primary Schools in the Free Education Scheme. This includes Voluntary Secondary Schools, Community and Comprehensive schools, as well as Education and Training Boards (ETBs) for ETB schools. The first installment, totaling €20 million, will be issued shortly, with the remaining €40 million scheduled for release in 2024. Further details on the second installment will be provided in 2024.
The grant serves the specific purpose of addressing increased school running costs. Traditionally, the Department provides per capita grants to recognized schools in the free education scheme, including the Capitation grant for day-to-day running costs (such as heating and lighting) and the Ancillary grant for employing ancillary services staff.
(The Capitation grant is a crucial component of the funding, supporting schools in covering their daily operational expenses. Circular 0040/2009, available on gov.ie, provides comprehensive information on the legitimate use of Capitation funding).
As part of Budget 2024, additional funding has been allocated to address the impact of increased energy costs and other day-to-day running expenses. This cost of living grant is calculated based on the recognized pupil enrollment as of September 30, 2022. Notably, primary schools with an enrollment equal to or less than 60 pupils will receive a grant based on a minimum enrolment of 60 pupils.
This government initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on schools, ensuring they have the necessary resources to meet growing expenses. Stay tuned for updates on the distribution of the second installment in 2024.
For more detailed information, refer to Circular Number: 0056/2023 on the official government website.
