Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 4

Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants Scheme.

Michael Finucane

Question:

115 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Education whether he intends to change the regulations which apply to the higher education grants scheme whereby applicants, who discontinue their studies and recommence again after a time lapse, are confined to the higher education grants scheme that was in force in the year in which the applicant did the leaving certificate, even though the criteria for eligibility are based on the current income of the applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

The matter raised by the Deputy viz. the question of the renewal of grants under the higher education grants scheme following breaks in studies, has been referred to my Department, as a general policy issue, by a number of local authorities, who are statutorily entrusted with the administration of the scheme.

A decision on the policy question will be conveyed to the local authorities as soon as possible.