1128. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether her Department has undertaken any review or evaluation of the impact of the free schoolbooks scheme on the overall back-to-school costs faced by families, including whether savings on books have been offset by increasing expenditure on digital devices and other school-related costs [55009/26]

As Minister for Education, I believe it is crucially important that children and young people are actively supported to access education in its fullest forms. This Government recognises that the cost of preparing children for school each September can be a cause of financial difficulty and worry for many Irish families.

My department is currently conducting an evaluation of both the primary and post-primary schoolbooks schemes for the 2025/26 school year, as agreed with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation. An evaluation was completed each year at post-primary level since the introduction of the Junior Cycle Schoolbooks Scheme in 2024. The evaluation includes consultation with key stakeholders including parents. It aims are to assess the wider impacts of the schoolbooks scheme, to review the operation of the scheme, to identify possible improvements going forward and to consider measures to improve efficiency for future years.

Feedback from parents for year 1 of the scheme in 2024/25 reinforced the positives outcomes of the scheme in reducing back to school costs for parents. It is evident that the scheme is widely appreciated for its positive financial impact and for reducing stress for families.

Under the Education Act 1998, Boards of Management have responsibility for the day-to-day management of schools. Decisions regarding the use and deployment of digital technology are therefore a matter for each school’s Board of Management, in the context of its digital learning planning. Schools are advised to consult with the school community, including parents, when planning the introduction of digital technologies, including devices, and to ensure that cost and other implications are fully considered before any decision is made.

I have recently communicated directly with all schools and boards of management, clarifying my department's position that there is no requirement for a personal device for junior or senior cycle and I requested schools to be cognisant of the views of parents in relation to the use of digital devices and the associated costs. Also, I stressed the need for schools to engage with all parents - and not just the Parent's Association - before deciding on an approach regarding devices.

As part of my department’s commitment to reducing financial pressure on families, work has commenced to review Circular 32/2017, which outlines measures to reduce the costs of school uniform and other costs. A revised circular will place a stronger emphasis on reducing costs for parents.

Schools work best when they engage openly with parents and students, listening to their views as well as keeping them informed. The Education (Student and Parent Charter) Bill, which is scheduled for Committee Stage after the summer recess, will require schools to consult parents and students on key policies and activities. It will strengthen communication, transparency and partnership, including on the management of back-to-school costs.