Section 172 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 1993 states that a person who is receiving full-time instruction by day at any university, college, school or other educational establishment shall not be entitled to supplementary welfare allowance except for their adult or child dependant, or unless there are exceptional circumstances.
The person in question was in receipt of unemployment benefit from 16 August 1996 to 25 September 1996 when she commenced her course. She may re-apply for unemployment benefit once her course ceases provided she satisfies the criteria.
The Eastern Health Board has no record of a claim for supplementary welfare allowance to date. If the person wishes to make a claim for assistance she may contact the Eastern Health Board which will make a decision on entitlement based on the legislation and the circumstances of the case.