An assessment into the impact of budget cuts on the education system has warned some schools could be left without essentials such as heating or insurance as a result of the reductions.

This is according to a submission by the Department of Education in September to Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Brendan Howlin’s comprehensive review of expenditure, which warned even a one per cent decrease in capitation would leave some facilities struggling to fund crucial services, the Irish Examiner reported.

However, this week's Budget included an immediate two per cent drop in capitation grants, to be followed by further two per cent decline in 2012 and one per cent the next two years.

The study said schools "might not be able to remain open if they are not able to fund essential expenditure, such as insurance, water charges, lighting or heating", though exactly what level of funding reductions would result in this situation is a "matter of judgement".

Officials at the department added cuts in grant payments to third-level students could increase the rate of college drop-outs.

The budget reductions have also been criticised by teaching unions, who have warned they will harm the quality of education in the country.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments