PARENTS AT national school level feel non-payment of voluntary contributions has a negative impact on their child’s education, according to a survey published by the National Parents Council Primary.
Chief executive officer of the primary parents’ group Áine Lynch said the issue of voluntary payments is a growing problem.
A common theme is the fear children could be discriminated against if parents do not make a contribution; 41 per cent of those surveyed said they feel pressure to make the payments.
Ms Leahy said the payments are sometimes attached to extra-curricular activities.
“So there is an implication there a child might not be allowed to take part in that activity. Parents feel compelled to pay . . . feel the need to protect their child from real or perceived stigma.”
Amounts parents are asked to pay vary greatly. The survey found a small number paying more than €300 per student, while less than one-third of the parents pay less than €50.
One-third of those surveyed pay €50 to €100 per child, almost one-fifth of parents pay between €100 and €150, and the remainder pay between €150 and €300.