Donal Carey
Question:48 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to permit third level institutions to increase the £260 non-tuition fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12836/99]
Written Answers. - Third Level Charges.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:65 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to permit third level institutions to increase the £260 non-tuition fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12803/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 65 together.
In line with the 4 per cent increase agreed for third level tuition fees for the 1998-99 academic year, I accepted an increase in the level of this charge to £260. The level of the charge is subject to annual review.
I would point out that students who are eligible for maintenance grants under the means tested student support schemes do not have to pay this charge. In this regard, some 60 per cent of certificate and diploma students in the technological sector and 40 per cent of students in the university sector are eligible for maintenance grants.