Vol. 535 No. 1
592 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will approve the top-up payment for higher education grants; the reason for the delay in approving this top-up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11344/01]
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 grantholders. The adjacent and non-adjacent rates announced were £1,000 and £2,000 respectively.
I have recently received the report of the action group which contains recommendations on the eligibility criteria governing the category of students who should qualify for the special rates of grant.
My Department is finalising the administrative arrangements necessary to ensure that the special rates of maintenance grant will be made available without delay.
