Vol. 529 No. 4
258 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will implement his announcement of top up grants for disadvantaged students; if the action group on access to third level education has reported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3101/01]
In September 2000, when setting up the action group on access to third level education, I announced, as an initial step, pending the findings of the group, the introduction of special rates of maintenance grant payable to disadvantaged grant holders. The adjacent and non-adjacent rates announced were £1,000 and £2,000, respectively.
I expect to receive in the near future the report of the action group and I understand that recommendations relating to the criteria for the special rates of grant will form part of that report. A further announcement regarding the special rates of grant will issue when I have fully considered the recommendations presented in the report.
