Vol. 555 No. 2
215 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in accordance with the recommendations of the Task Force on Lifelong Learning, he has proposals to abolish fees for certain part-time third level courses for adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18187/02]
The report of the Task Force on Lifelong learning, which was established by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in collaboration with education, training, community and voluntary and social partner interests, is due shortly.
The abolition of fees for part-time students would have to be considered in light of the budgetary situation and in the context of other competing demands in the education system, including tackling educational disadvantage at all levels, addressing capital and equipment needs and improving support services across the system. To introduce free fees for all part time students would be extremely costly and there are no plans at present to do so.
