Plans to introduce fresh cuts to school maintenance supports in response to a U-turn on reducing funding for disadvantaged schools have been described as robbing "Peter to pay Paul".

The Irish Primary Principal's Network (IPPN) has claimed Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn's latest move will leave hundreds of schools struggling to pay for basic utilities.

If capitation is cut by 3.5 per cent, many educational institutions will have an even smaller budget to cover the expense of heating and lighting, it was noted.

IPPN director Sean Cottrell stated: "This comes as hard-pressed families, many of them hit by job losses, are struggling to make voluntary contributions to help cover schools' running costs."

Mr Quinn's decision to retain 235 posts on a concessionary basis in DEIS Band 1 and DEIS Band 2 schools follows pressure from affected communities.

Meanwhile, several politicians and teaching unions had also expressed their criticism of the proposed cuts to funding for disadvantaged schools.

Written by Donal Walsh

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