The government's plans to reduce funding for the education system in Ireland could result in many primary schools running out of money next year.

According to the Irish Primary Principals' Network (IPPN), if there are cuts to the capitation grant, many schools in the country could find themselves unable to pay their bills.

Deputy president of the group Gerry Murphy said that parents alone will "no longer be able to keep schools afloat".

"It is beyond belief that the government is now actively considering a reduction in the basic funding of schools," he commented.

Earlier this month, government ministers met to discuss whether 400 million euros should be taken out of the budget for primary and secondary schools in Ireland.

Mr Murphy's comments come after research carried out by international expert Jim Spinks from Melbourne University on behalf of IPPN revealed that 85 per cent of schools are dependent on fundraising and voluntary contributions in order to stay open.

It also showed that medium-sized schools spend 23,000 euros more a year than what they receive from the government.

Written by Donal Walsh

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