Almost 80% of parents are finding 'back to school' costs a financial burden, according to a new survey.
The Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) asked 882 parents about the costs.
78% said it was a financial burden - an increase of 11% compared to 2018.
According to the survey, parents getting children ready for secondary school are spending almost €1,400 per child - up €20 on last year's figure.
In contrast, costs have reduced at primary school level with parents now spending €949 per child (down €50).
Meanwhile, the survey shows that the numbers in debt over back to school costs 'remains steady' at 36%.
However, there has been a reduction in the average debt from €405 to €357.
The ILCU's Paul Bailey explained that people use several methods to try to meet their children's needs.
He said: "[Some] people will budget - they'll save in preparation for back to school, and they'll put a bit away each month over the year.
"Some people are using their credit card, some people are using credit unions."
He added: "Others are turning to moneylenders - we've seen a slight reduction since last year of those surveyed.
"We've also seen a reduction in people using credit cards to cover those back to school expenses."
The survey also shows that 54% of parents said they were feeling pressure to buy branded goods.
Elsewhere, 74% of respondents said schools are not doing enough to keep costs down.
