Voluntary contributions in some parts of South Dublin have hit €600, forcing some parents into debt. 

The Department of Education has announced plans for a new statutory charter that will require schools to reveal exactly how their voluntary contributions are being spent. 

While there is no legal obligation for a parent to pay the fees, many parents come under sustained pressure from schools to do so.

While funding for education has gone up in recent years, teachers argue that voluntary contributions are still essential for them to balance the books.

On Lunchtime Live, Irish Times journalist Jen Hogan, who has seven children, said there is a “crazy variation” in voluntary contribution amounts across the country. 

 “You can have some people where the voluntary contribution is something around €50, €60 to €80,” she said. 

“I am aware of voluntary contributions up to €600 in some parts of South Dublin.” 

Whatever the sum, Ms Hogan said many parents feel the so-called 'voluntary contributions'  are far from “voluntary”

In fact, Ms Hogan said some parents will even take extreme measure to make sure the school gets the money it asks for. 

“I'm aware of parents who've even gotten into debt who have taken loans to pay the voluntary contribution,” she said. 

“Because they feel it's so important and it's so essential that they pay it, but it doesn't feel voluntary at all. 

“They feel there'll be a consequence, whether that's justified or not.” 

Main image: A group of school children in school uniforms. Picture by: NorthScape / Alamy Stock Photo