Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 2 Feb 1995

Vol. 448 No. 5

Written Answers. - Third Level Grants.

Liz O'Donnell

Question:

84 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Education if she will improve the third level grants system in order that students who spend longer than the average eight months at college will receive an additional maintenance grant to cover living expenses during the period, similar to the system in operation throughout the United Kingdom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3787/94]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

Under the terms of the higher education grants scheme and vocational scholarships scheme maintenance grants are paid in respect of the full academic year. I have no plans to pay a special higher level of maintenance grant to the category of student referred to by the Deputy.