The money can now be used for lockable boxes or cubbies, or drop off and collection at the school office.
From today, primary schools are required to implement a policy banning the use of phones.
Secondary schools will have a restrictive phone-use policy for the duration of the school day, which they'll develop in consultation with students, parents and staff.
It follows controversy over the designation of nine million euro for phone pouches.
The money can now be used for lockable boxes or cubbies, or drop off and collection at the school office.
Social Democrats education spokesperson Jen Cummins said the government's plan to allocate €9 million for phone storage is "tone-deaf".
She said most schools have already addressed phone use with low-cost solutions like boxes or pouches.
She has questioned if the funds are strictly for storage and suggested that the move is a continuation of a former minister's "pet project", with "the government trying to save face by giving schools an illusion of autonomy".
Education Minister Helen McEntee, is defending the spending.
One-Month Road Closure In Catherinestown To Start Next Week To Facilitate Maynooth Pipeline Works
Commuter Chaos On M7/N7 Renews Calls For Standby Emergency Response Team During Morning Gridlock
Two Men Arrested In Connection With Fire At An IPAS Centre In Co. Louth
Thousands Of Workers Could Get Tax Back In Time For Christmas, Says Financial Advisor
Tension In Fianna Fáil Over Alleged Rebel List, With Kildare TD Sean Ó Fearghaíl Labelled Part Of Old Guard
Exclusive: Cllr Bill Clear To Join Independent Ireland After Months Of Discussions
WATCH: Car Linked To Attempted Naas Robbery Spotted In Newcastle - Gardaí Warn Public Not To Approach
Court Hears Gardaí Medically Advised Not To Speak To Alleged 10-Year-Old Victim Of Sexual Assault At Citywest
