asked the Minister for Education if he will give details of the increase in grants to third level students.
Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants.
251.
In accordance with the provisions of the Government's National Plan, Building on Reality: 1985-1987, the increase to be made in the maintenance element of grants and the income eligibility limits on the higher education grant and related schemes in 1986 is that which is warranted by reference to the rate of inflation since 1985.
In accordance with that provision increases as follows have been made in the higher education grant and related schemes for the 1986-87 academic year: (a) the maintenance elements of grants were increased by 4.59 per cent (e.g. the maximum grant was increased from £1,160 to £1,213), and (b) the income eligibility limits were increased by 4.59 per cent (e.g. the upper income eligibility limit was increased from £16,540 to £17,300).
I wish, also, to say that the lecture fee element of grants is being increased in line with the increases in third level college fees for the 1986-87 academic year.