Vol. 558 No. 2
151 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if, further to Question No. 399 of 18 June 2002, the task force has reported; if he will consider removing fees for part-time students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23941/02]
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, voluntary and social partner interests, was launched on 15 November 2002. As previously outlined to the Deputy in my response to Question No. 661 of 9 October 2002, 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.
