Reacting to Barnardos’ cost-of-living report, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education, Sorca Clarke TD, has said that children and young people should not miss out on educational opportunities due to financial costs.

Teachta Clarke said:

“Barnardos has launched its cost-of-living report. The findings are shocking.

“Parents were asked if over the past six months have you or your children had to go without or cut down on any of the following due to cost of living increases.

“11% reported that they had to go without and or cut down on school supplies.

“18% said that they had to go without and or cut down on school trips and activities.

“The majority of parents responding to the survey stated they are worried about having enough money over the next six months to meet the needs of their children.

“It is becoming increasingly clear that economic inequality remains at the core of educational inequality. This must change.

“We must ensure that every child has equal access to education.

“A change of government is needed to deliver education that is truly affordable and accessible for families.

“Sinn Féin understand the importance and the need for education that is truly affordable and believe that it is critical to adequately invest in our education system and our young people.

“A Sinn Féin government would progress us down a path with a range of measures that would eliminate and reduce costs spanning primary school through to secondary, higher and further education.”