14. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the amount of money that has been granted per school for ICT equipment for the school year 2025-26; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59397/25]

Sentiment score: 0.09

This question is about the amount of money that has been granted per school for ICT equipment for the school year 2025-26.

Sentiment score: 0.25

The predictability of when funding will be made available to schools is absolutely welcome, and I know this from my own experience in some schools. To clarify again, am I correct in saying the minor works and the ICT funding will be given in December or January?

Sentiment score: 0.25

That is extremely good. In regard to the €35 million given to schools in May, was that funding down on last year's provision or is it the case the €35 million that was given in May and the funding that will be given in January will be placed together as the whole funding for one academic year? Alternatively, has the ICT grant funding reduced since last year? If the Minister could clarify this I would appreciate it.

Sentiment score: 0.31

That clarifies the position of the predictability of when that funding will come through and the fact some of the €200 million fund previously in the strategy still remains and will be followed through on. Does the Department outline guidelines to each school when it gives the ICT funding on what possible initiatives the school could use the funding for or is it totally up to the boards of management or principals of schools or people who are in post in relation to ICT equipment? The previous Bill debated this evening was about back to school costs. In regard to the ICT equipment required by schools, is there a possibility that schools would be able to set aside a certain amount of funding they receive every year to buy pieces of ICT equipment that could be allocated to or rented out to students? The Minister might not be able to answer that question now but it could be clarified at some other time.

Sentiment score: 0.10