Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 Feb 1996

Vol. 461 No. 3

Written Answers. - Student Tax Deductions.

Charlie McCreevy

Question:

52 Mr. McCreevy asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of allowing a tax deduction at the standard rate, against their income, for students who undertake post-graduate and night classes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2814/96]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

The estimated cost of allowing a tax relief at the standard rate in respect of fees for post-graduate courses and night classes is estimated to be up to £8 million based on approximately £30 million paid in fees between part-time and post-graduate students.

As you are aware, fees for full-time undergraduate courses at public colleges are being phased out. In addition, provision has been made for tax relief from the academic year 1996-97 in respect of fees paid to approved private colleges in respect of approved full-time undergraduate courses.

A further income tax concession of the sort proposed would not only involve a substantial cost to the Exchequer but would, inevitably, be bound to generate many similar claims from other taxpayers for tax relief on a variety of personal expenditure. The consequential loss to the Exchequer would mean that considerable revenue would have to be found elsewhere to maintain services.