‘Decline in donations makes job impossible’

A dramatic fall in voluntary contributions is making the job of managing primary schools almost impossible, teachers claimed yesterday.

There was strong criticism at the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation congress of inadequate funding for schools — especially proposed cuts in the capitation grant, the amount of which is based on pupil numbers — and minor works grant.

Cork City South delegate Norma Ryan said the effects of the cuts would be felt in every school, by every teacher, as well as by their management boards.