Vol. 566 No. 1
296 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reviews he has carried out to reintroduce third levels fees; the nature of the fee structure; if his Department is contemplating reintroducing fees for the upcoming semester; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11524/03]
301 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if he intends to meet with Macra na Feirme following the publication of the report into third level funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11555/03]
304 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science when the review being carried out regarding the possible reintroduction of third level fees will be concluded; and if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties experienced by parents and students alike planning for the future with this delay. [11595/03]
322 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of his review of higher education grants and free fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11748/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 296, 301, 304 and 322 together.
My Department has been undertaking a review of student support provisions with the aim of ensuring that the benefits of the substantial investment being made are maximized. As I have indicated previously, I expect that the outcome of the review by my officials will provide me with a range of possible options which will seek to ensure that the available funding is targeted in a manner which achieves maximum impact from the point of view of equity of access to third level education. When I have had an opportunity to consider the contents of the review I will bring the matter to Cabinet. Following its consideration by Government, I will make a determination as regards publication and consultation arrangements, as appropriate. I recognise the need to avoid, as far as possible, uncertainty for students and their parents. In any event, it is my intention to decide shortly as to the arrangements and support provisions which will be in place for students for the 2003-04 academic year.
