Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 22 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 4

Written Answers. - Mature Student Grants.

Dermot Fitzpatrick

Question:

238 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that mature students can gain places, on interview to third level institutions but, because their leaving certificate marks may have been gained many years prior to them entering third level education they will not qualify for grant aid at these institutions; if she has any plans to remedy this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

Arising from a commitment in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress the amendment of the higher education grants scheme in a number of areas is being considered. The proposed amendments include regarding a mature student who secures a place in a third-level institution as satisfying the academic requirements for the award of a grant under the scheme.