Cork TDs call for action as a third of families in debt for back-to-school

Cork TDs have called for urgent Government action on spiralling back-to-school costs, as a new report shows that one in three families are being forced into debt as a result.

Labour’s education spokesperson, Cork TD Eoghan Kenny, said new data from the Irish League of Credit Unions, which shows that parents are spending €1,450 per primary pupil and €1,560 per secondary student, is shocking.

One in three families are being forced into debt to cope with the financial burden, it is claimed.

Mr Kenny said: “Parents are doing everything they can to give their children the best start in life, but they are being failed by a system that continues to demand voluntary fees, charges for uniforms and exam papers, and now increasingly requires expensive digital devices like tablets and iPads. This is not free education.

“It is absolutely unacceptable that 35% of parents say they have had to deny their child at least one essential item. This isn’t just about cost — it’s about fairness and dignity for children. No child should be left behind because their family can’t afford the basics.”

Mr Kenny called for the Government to make the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance universal, to abolish exam fees, to make school transport free for all, and to ban voluntary contributions.

A Barnardos report shows that 50% of primary-pupil parents and 60% of secondary-student parents are worried about meeting costs this year, with many having to take out loans.

Sinn Féin TDs Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire and Thomas Gould said the report must act as a wake-up call for Government.

“This report from Barnardos yet again lays bare the need for a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget,” Mr Ó Laoghaire said. “Families are already struggling to keep their heads above water. As the cost-of-living crisis continues to spiral out of control, people simply cannot afford this annual financial blow.

“As the reports detailing the level of financial pressure on ordinary workers and families stack up, so too do the excuses from Government as to why they won’t offer support.”

Mr Gould added: “One secondary school parent outlined in the survey that they will not pay their gas and electric bill in August and will take out a loan and use instalments.

“It does not have to be this way. To have families being pushed to the brink to cover basic back-to-school costs is scandalous.”