601. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 62835/26 of 7 September 2026, the total value of voluntary contributions collected by schools in the most recent year for which data is available; whether her Department has set any target for reducing compulsory or unavoidable costs to parents; and the reason her Department does not gather data on school level compliance with Circular 0032/2017 on school uniform costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [65402/26]

The Department's position is that voluntary contributions must remain voluntary in nature and that no pupil should be disadvantaged, either directly or indirectly, where a parent chooses not to make such a contribution.

Schools have recorded receipt of voluntary contributions of €24,121,426 for the school year 24/25. The annual financial return deadline for schools providing their 25/26 accounts to the Financial Support Services Unit (FSSU) is 28 February 2027, and as such the number of schools for 25/26 is currently unavailable.

Circular 0032/2017 sets out the principles of cost-effective practice to be adopted by schools to reduce the cost of returning to school, including in relation to school uniforms. Under the Circular, schools should select school uniform items that are generic and can be purchased from an array of retailers. Only "iron on" or "sew on" crests should be used. Schools should provide parents with a list of all required items and indicate the likely costs of these required items at best value stores. Schools should also consult with parents on their views and suggestions on cost reduction initiatives. My department is reviewing the Circular with a view to placing a stronger emphasis on reducing costs for parents.

In relation to digital devices, the Department has written to schools to advise them that there is no requirement from the department for a student to have their own digital device for school. The Department has also asked schools to fully consider the views of parents and guardians, as well as cost and equity implications, before introducing any new approach involving digital devices. To address concerns that device costs could widen the digital divide, the department is gathering national evidence through the Schools Data Collection survey on device provision, ICT Grant use, device costs for families, infrastructure gaps and IT support needs. The findings, expected later this year, will inform future policy and funding decisions to support equitable digital learning.

The Education (Student and Parent Charter) Bill, which is due to progress to Committee Stage in the Dáil on 8 October 2026, aims to strengthen engagement between schools, parents and students, including on issues such as back-to-school costs and school uniform policies.