Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 May 1992

Vol. 419 No. 6

Written Answers. - VEC Overseas Courses.

Richard Bruton

Question:

181 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Dublin vocational education committee do not have a budget to fund gifted students doing courses overseas; and if he will provide funds from the national lottery or other sources to fund such a scheme on a regular basis.

Richard Bruton

Question:

182 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to the fact that eight Irish girls have been successfully selected to study for one year at the state choreographic institute in Perm, Russia, and if he will outline whether there is any non-VEC source of funding which could be tapped by the parents of these girls to fund this important opportunity for a cultural exchange.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 181 and 182 together.

My Department has made funds available periodically to certain Vocational Education Committees, including CDVEC, to assist students who are deemed to be exceptionally talented in the performing arts to study abroad. Because of the nature of the scheme, it would not be logical to provide a fixed budget on an annual basis. It is preferable instead to consider each application on its own merits and if in the exceptionally talented category, to make the financial assistance available through the appropriate Vocational Education Committee. I am satisfied that in this manner, the exceptionally talented students in question are financially assisted to the extent possible by my Department.

On the general issue of financial assistance, the Deputy might consider raising the matter with the Arts Council. As to the specific case of the students studying in Perm, Russia, I have been made aware that a private cultural education trust has sought sponsorship for them.