Madam, - The day-to-day cost of running primary schools continues to increase alarmingly, and particularly for small schools in rural areas. The cost of insurance alone now swallows up 25 per cent of the annual capitation grant. There have been large increases in other essentials such as heating and electricity.
More recently, the cost of water charges (a form of local taxation) has increased by 87 per cent over the past two years. Just last week a new directive was issued imposing another tax on schools, whereby schools with a television on the premises are now required to purchase a €150 television licence.
Is it not time for the teachers' unions to take an interest in such matters as taxation by stealth on education? - Yours, etc.,
D.J. O'GORMAN, Peace Commissioner, Oola, Co Limerick.