Quinn: I can’t force schools to help cut parents’ bills

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn insists he does not have power to force schools into moves that would reduce parents’ bills on books, uniforms and other education costs.

He was responding to suggestions that he use laws or regulations to require policies such as freedom to use generic uniforms, to limit changes to school books, and to restrict pressure on parents for funding.

The latest Barnardos Back to School Survey this week revealed that, although expenses are similar to last year, Mr Quinn’s efforts to have schools do more about these issues are having little or no effect.