Beg, borrow and school

Cash-strapped parents are forced to reduce or postpone expenses to meet voluntary school contribution charges, according to a report by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP).

e study, titled ‘Closing the Gap - What is Needed to End Voluntary Contributions in Post Primary Schools,’ is based on an online survey and case studies with six post-primary school principals and reveals that nearly 90% of parents struggle to pay fees ranging from €30 to €550 per student (average: €140 per child).

Out of the 1,447 parents who responded, 87% reported cutting back on essential areas like food, energy bills, medical appointments and social activities. Some even resorted to borrowing from family, credit unions or seeking support from SVP.

A spokesperson for SVP noted that the Department of Education guidance to schools states: “Voluntary contributions may be sought from parents, provided it is made clear to parents that there is no compulsion to pay and that a child’s place in the school or continued enrolment is not dependant on a willingness to make a contribution.”

Kilkenny soccer belles: golden memories on the eld

In a joyous reunion, 15 illustrious soccer women of Kilkenny embraced a remarkable milestone—their golden jubilee. Gathered from the depths of cherished memories, these sporting pioneers revelled in the celebration of their extraordinary achievements on the hallowed soccer elds of Ireland, over half a century ago. City Hall opened its doors to bestow upon them a regal Civic reception, where Mayor, Cllr David FitzGerald, adorned each player with a parchment of glory, chronicling their triumphs.

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However, 80% of respondents said that voluntary contributions were not clearly communicated as being optional and SVP expressed concern that some schools are not adhering to the Department directive.

One parent responding to the survey said: “It had to be paid or the child did not receive a homework notebook. Teacher would ask where’s your notebook, so all the class would know fees weren’t paid. Very embarrassing for child.” e schools consulted expressed concern about the level of funding they receive and said that they rely on voluntary contributions for essential resources such as books, classroom materials, school journals, insurance, stationary, printing and lockers.

Niamh Dalziel, research and policy o cer with SVP acknowledged that schools are underfunded.

Dalziel said: “During the period of austerity, the capitation grant, which covers the basic running costs for schools per pupil, was cut from €345 to €309.

“In 2020, the rate was €316. To maintain the real 2010 value, adjusted for in ation to 2023, the grant should be €422 or 33% higher.”

SVP President Rose McGowan acknowledged the stress and nancial hardships faced by parents in meeting contribution costs, leading to reduced spending and debt.

SVP’s recommendations, advocate for new regulations on voluntary contributions, higher capitation grants to cover running costs, elimination ofnancial barriers in education, policy proo ng, a procurement support service for schools, and improved transparency in educational funding data.

Kilkenny triumphs at Irish Animation Awards

Kilkenny celebrates a triumphant showing at the Irish Animation Awards in Galway. Cartoon Saloon’s Net ix production, “My Fathers Dragon,” directed by Nora Twomey, clinched ve wins, including Best Irish Feature or Special. Lighthouse Studios, also based in Kilkenny, secured at least two awards for their creation, “ e Cuphead Show.”

Kilkenny’s success further cements its position as a hub for exceptional animation, garnering international recognition for its talented artists. e victories highlight the city’s contribution to the thriving Irish animation industry.

Kilkenny man jailed for sexual assault

Kevin Cradden (33) from Kilkenny has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for sexually assaulting a sleeping woman. Cradden pleaded guilty to the assault, which occurred in a Dublin house on May 31, 2021. e victim woke up to nd someone kissing her and touching her inappropriately, initially mistaking the assailant for her ex-boyfriend.

Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged Cradden’s lack of prior convictions and reduced the sentence to three years, suspending the nal 18 months under strict conditions.

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