Vol. 495 No. 2
140 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance whether his attention has been drawn to the creation of a new BSc programme in Government and public policy which is being offered by University College, Cork; the incentives and support available to public and civil servants who wish to undertake this course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19187/98]
I have direct responsibility for the implementation of post entry education schemes in the Civil Service only. Department of Finance Circular 21/78 provides that civil servants may qualify for a refund of fees, for third level courses leading to a recognised qualification, which are deemed by my Department as relevant to the Civil Service employment of the officers attending them. In addition civil servants who qualify for refund of fees may also be granted study leave. However, the fact that a course is covered by the terms of Circular 21/78 does not in itself convey any entitlement to a refund of fees for that course. The decision as to whether to refund some, all or none of the fees for an acceptable course rests with the Head of each Department.
In addition to the arrangements set out in Circular 21/78, under the career break scheme civil servants may apply for special leave without pay for a number of purposes including further study.
