Fianna Fáil European candidate for Dublin, Cllr. Mary Fitzpatrick has today commented on reports that the Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn is planning a partial climb-down on the School Book Rental Scheme.

“Let me be clear” Said Cllr Fitzpatrick “While I welcome the news that the Minister for Education has somewhat reversed his policy in regard to the School Book Rental Scheme, it does not go far enough.  It is unacceptable that the Minister is not treating all schools equally and fairly, he needs to review his decision and open this scheme to all”.

Dublin City Cllr. Fitzpatrick has been a long time champion the School Book Rental Scheme, recently she put a motion to city council to address this issue which was passed.

“It is my understanding that schools with a scheme already in place will receive €18 per head while DEIS schools with book rental schemes will receive €20. That compares to €100 and €150 respectively for schools that have no scheme.  I also understand that the schools will not receive this next year, but will have to wait until the following academic year of 2015/2016.  This is totally unfair to householders and I will continue to call for Minister Quinn to review his decision until all school children have a fair and equal solution”.