Call for free secondary school books by Kildare TD

A Sinn Féin TD for Kildare-North has said that the government must expand the free book scheme to secondary schools.

Réada Cronin TD also called on the government to halt its planned increase on third-level fees.

She was speaking ahead of her party's Dáil motion on the issue last week, which was brought forward by party spokesperson on Education, Sorca Clarke TD, and spokesperson on Higher Education, Mairéad Farrell TD.

Ms Cronin said: "We talk about 'free education' but as parents know with all the associated costs, it’s anything but.

"It’s time to make education actually free and available to all."

She continued: "Education costs are an even bigger worry for many in North Kildare this year as parents are hammered by mortgage hikes, soaring rents and cost of living... They need a hand now not another financial wallop.

"Fees are a barrier to education, they hold back students, keep them out of third level and are a huge burden for parents and students alike (but) the government, incredibly, intends to increase student fees this September."

She then made reference to her colleague Ms Farrell, saying: "Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Higher Education, Mairéad Farrell TD, is calling on the government to do an about turn in the interest of students and families.

"She is asking them to cancel the planned increase to student contributions charges and go even further by committing to phase out fees over the coming years."

UPDATE: 22-month custodial sentence for Kildare Village shoplifter

CONVICTED

Heavy Goods Vehicle stopped by gardaí at Caragh, County Kildare

Ms Cronin further echoed these sentiments when she elaborated: "Primary and post-primary education in this state is supposed to be 'free', under constitution and legislation, but the reality is radically different.

"The most recent Irish League of Credit Unions ‘back to school costs’ survey finds that back to school continues to be a challenge for parents, with 66 per cent saying that covering the cost of back to school is a financial burden.

"Once the book list, and all that goes with it, goes up on the fridge next month, too many parents will be worried about how they will manage.

"School books remain one of the most expensive items for parents of secondary school children in North Kildare at an average cost of €210 per year.

"We need to take the financial pressure off parents in North Kildare so their children’s education is free not just in theory but in practice," Ms Cronin concluded.