Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

Poll: Should the State stop providing funds to fee-paying schools?

As a new report shows greater literacy levels in private schools, the TUI has called on the Government to stop funding fee-paying schools. Do you agree with them?

A RECENT OECD report has highlighted the fact that students in fee-paying schools in Ireland have greater literacy skills than those in vocational schools.

The average reading score of 15-year-olds at tuition-charging schools was 73 points higher than those in non-fee-paying schools. The study also found that socio-economically advantaged students are more likely to attend privately-managed schools.

After the publication of the report, General Secretary of the Teacher’s Union of Ireland John MacGabhann told The Irish Times that it was time for the State to stop giving a “turbo boost” to the already privileged.

In 2011, fee-paying schools received €100 million to cover the costs of certain teaching posts, plus €2.15 million in capital funding and €22,000 in technology grants for students with special needs.

Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn has previously said the arrangements are complex as any changes would impact on schools that cater for certain minorities.

What do you think? Should the long-standing arrangements stay in place or is it time for change?

In today’s poll, we ask: Should the State stop providing funds to fee-paying schools?


Poll Results:

Yes (1766)
No (921)
I don't know (111)

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
183 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimmy Coltrane
    Favourite Jimmy Coltrane
    Report
    Jul 17th 2018, 9:02 PM

    Kerrie,listening to your story has brought me to tears, I feel such admiration for your courage in the manner in which you live your life now, your resolve.
    Sincerely wishng you all the best for your future and hope you find all the happiness in life you deserve.
    Thank you or sharing.

    121
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Bernadette OConnor
    Favourite Bernadette OConnor
    Report
    Jul 17th 2018, 9:28 PM

    Hi Kerrie. You have blossomed into a beautiful young woman. Delighted to see you after such a long time and am delighted to say I knew you when you were a young girl. You are an inspiration and I always told your Mam and dad that you were a very special person. Seeing you now on screen confirms what I always believed. Keep the heart up. You ARE a wonderful person. The world is your oyster. xx Bernie

    88
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ken Hayden
    Favourite Ken Hayden
    Report
    Jul 17th 2018, 9:01 PM

    What a tragic series of events . All the best to you Kerrie .

    77
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Eric Cray
    Favourite Eric Cray
    Report
    Jul 17th 2018, 10:05 PM

    Wow what an amazing person to go true all that and still gives back to kids and adults in archery,and still competes in the highest levels is amazing, if only we look at what we take for granted and see what Kerry does is truly amazing, young lady you are truly amazingly special and kind

    44
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
JournalTv
News in 60 seconds