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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Mar 2003

Vol. 562 No. 4

Written Answers - Breaking the Cycle Scheme.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

266 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm his Department's commitment to the Trinity Access Programme Foundation Course which is attended by former pupils from second level schools (details supplied) in Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the importance of this course to students who otherwise might not make it to third level college; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6470/03]

The Higher Education Authority has, for several years, provided dedicated funding to the universities and other Higher Education Authority designated institutions to support new developments in areas of strategic importance in higher education. One priority area is that of broadening access to the universities and Higher Education Authority institutions for students from traditionally under-represented groups. These include students from disadvantaged backgrounds, mature students and travellers. In 2002, the Higher Education Authority provided more than €6 million to support institutions in initiatives aimed at providing for such broadened access.

The ‘Foundation Course for Higher Education – Young Adults' in Trinity College is one development which has been funded by the Higher Education Authority under its targeted initiatives. In this regard, €127,000 was provided by the Higher Education Authority in 2002. Decisions regarding allocations for 2003 for all access programmes in the university sector will be taken by the Higher Education Authority in due course. My Department also grant aids a number of special projects which are designed to improve access to third level for second level pupils in particular schools in disadvantaged areas. In this regard, my Department provided funding of €36,830 in 2002 for the Trinity Access Project.
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