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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 1

Written Answers. - Third Level Fees.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

248 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Carlow Regional Technical College failed to advise students for the 1997-1998 academic year of the increase in registration fees to £250; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that students who turned up for registration on 30 September 1997, and who had previously paid £150, had to pay a further £100 on the spot; his views on whether the college was at fault and that it would be more appropriate for the £100 to be paid in instalments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15408/97]

: On 30 July last, I announced that the standardised charge levied by third level colleges for examinations, registration and student services could be increased from £150 to £250. Details of the increase were conveyed to third level colleges and widely publicised in the national press at the time.

I understand from Carlow Regional Technical College that the college authorities did not advise individual students returning to the college of the increased charge. I also understand that, while any student who was in a position to pay the increase on registration day did so, those students who experienced difficulties in meeting the increase were registered and allowed a special facility whereby they undertook to pay the £100 increase by 15 January 1998.

Students who are eligible for maintenance grants under the means tested support schemes do not have to pay this charge.

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