I propose to take Questions Nos.445 and 446 together.
In general, all degree courses in Ireland — including Northern Ireland — and other non-degree courses which comply with the following criteria are recognised for grants purposes under the higher education grants scheme.
The criteria for non-degree courses are:—
(a) wholetime with an entry standard of Grade D or a higher grade in at least five subjects, of the leaving certificate examination;
(b) of a minimum duration of two years and
(c) recognised by a university, University College or the National Council for Educational Awards for the purpose of the award of a certificate or diploma.
The course referred to by the Deputy is not, I understand, recognised for grant aid under the comparable educational awards scheme in Northern Ireland and in the circumstances was not deemed eligible under our own higher education grants scheme.
The course is recognised, however, by the Department of Health for the purposes of securing employment in the particular field, and I am having the question of its eligibility under the higher education grants scheme re-examined in consultation with the Department of Health.