Vol. 492 No. 7
67 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will publish the preliminary report of the working group examining the various options for the future administration of the student support schemes; if it is expected that the new procedures will be in place for the academic year 1998-99; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14980/98]
As the Deputy is aware, a joint working group involving officials from my Department and the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs carried out an examination of options for the future administration of the student support schemes. I received the preliminary report of this working group in December last and this report forms the basis for the current discussions I am engaged in with my colleague, the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, regarding a more detailed review, which will involve the participation of interested parties. In the circumstances, I do not propose to publish this preliminary report at this time.
At this stage, it is not possible to predict the outcome of the more detailed review. However, as I have previously indicated, no irrevocable decisions will be taken in relation to any future arrangements without appropriate consultation with all interested parties.
For the 1998-99 academic year the schemes of third level student support will continue to be administered by the local authorities and vocational education committees.
The introduction of maintenance grants for students attending PLC courses involves the development of significant new administrative arrangements. I expect to be in a position to announce further details on the administration of the PLC scheme in the near future.
