Vol. 563 No. 4
617 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to introduce a proposal in the Finance Bill 2003 which will abolish the back to education allowance; if so, the reason for this; if he will reconsider his decision in view of the fact that this will affect a lot of mature students nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7700/03]
The back to education allowance scheme is non-statutory. It is a second chance educational opportunities scheme designed to help the unemployed and other groups to improve their qualifications and to enhance their employment prospects.
I have no plans to abolish the back to education allowance scheme. However, changes have recently been made to the scheme to ensure that it is focused on people with greater need for support in accessing employment. Payments under the scheme for the summer period have been discontinued, on the grounds that people in education do find work opportunities during the summer. Such persons may also be entitled to unemployment payments, subject to the usual conditions, if they are unable to get work.
The scheme is also being restricted to persons pursuing courses at primary degree level, on the basis that claimants in possession of a third level qualification have already achieved a level of academic attainment, which should enhance their employment prospects. Students already pursuing a postgraduate degree under the scheme will not be affected by this change.
