Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 1

Written Answers - Student Support Schemes.

Willie Penrose

Question:

564 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason her Department has taken the decision to restrict the payment, during the period of June to September 2003, of the back to education allowance, third level option, and also to restrict the payment of BTEA to undergraduate students only; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that very often for the purpose of career prospects, it is necessary to pursue a post-graduate qualification and that these new measures will effectively deny those who suffer from socio-economic disadvantage to pursue such a qualification; if she will have same reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7061/03]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

574 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will reconsider the changes in the back to education allowance which will now stop the students involved from proceeding to postgraduate study and further require their interruption of study by having to sign on during holiday periods; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7482/03]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 564 and 574 together.

The back to education allowance scheme is a second chance opportunity for people to improve their education and to enhance their opportunities to access the labour market. In framing proposals to change elements of the BTEA scheme, I was conscious of the need to ensure that payments were geared to those most in need of support. It is common practice for students in third level education to take up employment during the summer months. It is reasonable, therefore, to expect students on the BTEA scheme to take up employment during this time. If these students fail to find employment they may be entitled to an unemployment payment, subject to satisfying the usual qualifying conditions.

People in possession of a third level qualification are already well placed to get employment. In these circumstances, I concluded that giving further support to people to gain post-graduate qualifications is not appropriate and that the moneys should be directed to those with more pressing needs. Students already pursuing a postgraduate course will not be affected by the changes to the scheme. I am satisfied the new arrangements will ensure that the BTEA scheme is focused on providing supports to those people with the greatest need.