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Clare Principal Says Schools “Facing Down Barrel Of Educational Gun” Due To Rising Costs

A Clare Primary School claims they’re struggling to keep their heads above water due to soaring operating costs that have been unmatched by government supports.

It comes as a record number of national schools have applied to the Department of Education this year for emergency funding.

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According to the Catholic Primary School Management Association, a review of 90 school accounts nationwide show running costs have soared an average of 65% since 2019.

Insurance costs are up by a third across the board, while cleaning bills is up 80% and utility bills have jumped by 49%.

This has culminated in a record number of schools across the country applying for Emergency Financial Assistance.

St Conaires in Shannon haven’t had to make this leap just yet, but in the last year alone have seen their insurance premium rise by €4,000.

Principal Peter Walsh says teachers and SNAs are even dipping in their own pockets to ensure children are not left without resources.

An Ennis school, meanwhile, has pointed to the Government’s failure to increase the student capitation grants in line with inflation.

The rate has remained static at €200 per pupil in mainstream classrooms since 2008.

Assistant Principal of CBS, Colm Davoren says schools are facing down the barrel of an educational gun and believes there will be closures unless the system changes.

You can listen to the full interview here:

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