School book bills continue to put extreme pressure on struggling families

THE cost of school books and accusations about unnecessary new editions pushing up costs have been the subject of debate, radio discussions and pub talk in recent days, as parents do the last of their back-to-school shopping.

There is little doubt that thousands of families will find the inordinate costs, particularly for those starting second-level education, too much to handle at a time when they may already be struggling to meet the costs of uniforms and shoes which might not even last beyond Christmas for many children.

Our sample book lists, pictured and priced right, from a primary school and second-level school in Cork city show the typical costs to parents of books alone, without the additional burden of copybooks, stationery, school bags, sports gear and uniforms.