The Department of Education is placing many schools in a very difficult position of having to choose whether to fund caretaking services or secretarial services. I have been contacted by a number of schools in my constituency. They have expressed concern and were shocked over the fact the ancillary services grant would not cover the caretaking costs for this year. The CPSMA has carried out a survey which clearly showed that at least seven out of ten schools ran at a deficit in funding at least once during the year.

It clearly shows that schools are being placed in an unfair position really in respect of trying to choose whether to employ a secretary or a caretaker. This also shows deep disrespect for caretakers who do fantastic work in the school community. Will the Taoiseach intervene immediately to sort out this mess with the ancillary grant?

I thank Deputy Nolan for raising this issue. I agree with her that school caretakers and secretaries are crucial parts of school communities. We all see this as we travel around the country and in schools in our own communities. I will certainly talk to the Minister for Education about the ancillary services grant and the impact the Deputy believes this is having on schools in her community and ask her to revert to the Deputy.