Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Dec 1993

Vol. 437 No. 1

Written Answers. - Dropping of Academic Requirement.

Ivan Yates

Question:

123 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education if she will clarify her recent decision in relation to dropping the academic requirement of two honours in the Leaving Certificate for students at higher education who, having completed diploma courses, are seeking scholarships and grants for degree courses; and if her decision to only grant the waiving of this academic requirement for students who are commencing degree courses in 1993-94 is fair on those who have had to pay the costs in 1992 and this year of such degree courses such as a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will reconsider giving equal exemption for such cases.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

In the case of improvements in the third level students support system, it is the general practice of my Department to introduce such improvements in the current year's schemes, and to fund such improvements for students who benefit therefrom with effect from the current academic year.

Having regard to the financial and other issues involved, I am not in a position to backdate such improvements in this particular instance.