Education

‘No parent can be compelled to make a voluntary contribution’ - Education Minister

Norma Foley says government is contemplating extending free schoolbooks scheme to second level

Norma Foley, Minister for Education: “We’re asking schools also be mindful – no parents, no guardian can be compelled to make a contribution.” Picture: MAXWELLS

Norma Foley, the Minister for Education, has said parents can not be compelled to pay voluntary contribution to schools.

It comes as parents are paying in the region of €30 million a year in voluntary contributions to schools to help plug gaps in finances, according to reports from the Irish Times.

Speaking at an event to mark the government’s €53 million scheme for free books for primary pupils from September, the minister said she is ...