Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Oct 1999

Vol. 509 No. 3

Written Answers. - Student Support Schemes.

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My officials have been engaged, with officials of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs, in a detailed review of the administration of the student support schemes.

Initially, a joint working group representative of both Departments carried out an examination of options for the future administration of the schemes and produced a preliminary report which was submitted to both Ministers. The first meeting of this working group took place on 15 September 1997. Apart from four formal meetings, there was a considerable degree of contact between members of the group prior to the finalisation of the preliminary report.

Following an assessment of the preliminary report by both Departments, a range of issues was identified which required further detailed examination. Accordingly, officials from both Departments have been consulting on the resource and administration implications involved. There have been two formal meetings in this context, the most recent of which took place on 24 June 1999. The parameters of the detailed examination to be undertaken and the associated staffing involvement are being finalised between the two Departments.

The Deputy will appreciate that there are major implications, for example, for the local authorities and vocational education committees, in any proposals to change the administration of the schemes. It is my intention, therefore, that there will be full consultation with all interested parties and I have previously indicated that no irrevocable decisions will be taken in relation to any future arrangements prior to such consultation taking place.