The Irish Second-level Students’ Union (ISSU) welcomes the formal approval from cabinet to implement free books and e-books for Junior Cycle students. Minister Norma Foley made the formal announcement recently which will provide free books and e-books to secondary schools.
The free books scheme was introduced for primary schools in Budget 2022 and recently expanded to Junior Cycle students. ISSU hopes to see the scheme expanded to Senior Cycle students in the coming years, in order to ensure that as many financial barriers to education are eradicated as possible.
Speaking on the announcement, Shari Irfan, ISSU President commented ‘This announcement will alleviate stress on the backs of students and families as it puts money back into their pockets during what is a time of increased cost of living. While students doing the Junior Certificate will benefit from this Leaving Certificate students will not. We urge the Government to extend this to every student in second level education.”
The scheme will begin operation for the academic year 2024/25. More information and guidance on the scheme can be found via: (www.gov.ie)
