THE GOVERNMENT must increase its back-to-school supplement if all students are to be given an equal start in the education system, children's charity Barnardos said yesterday.
Fergus Finlay, Barnardos chief executive, said the "crippling costs" of sending children back to school was pushing many families further into debt. "Uniforms are expensive, with individual pinafores and skirts costing up to €90 each. This puts real pressure on parents." He believed the Department of Social and Family Affairs back-to-school clothing and footwear scheme is not "reflective" or capable of covering the costs incurred by many families.
The scheme is open to people who are in receipt of social welfare and Health Service Executive payments and those on low incomes who are getting family income supplement or who are taking part in approved employment schemes or training courses.
Mr Finlay said the allowance is not available to many of those who need it most. "It is aimed at families in need, yet the income guidelines governing eligibility results in some families in low-paid employment, particularly lone-parent families, being ineligible."
Under the scheme, which has been allocated €46 million and expects to serve 190,000 students this year, parents receive €200 for each eligible child aged between two and 11 years and €305 for children aged between 12 and 22.
Barnardos estimates the cost of equipping a junior infants pupil is €405, while preparing a second-level pupil is €880. The department said the allocation for the scheme has increased by €6 million and families who may be entitled should contact their local community welfare officer.
