Vol. 568 No. 1
329 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be provided for the Trinity access programme for the coming college year in view of the fact that this course caters for students from Tallaght and is of great benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15369/03]
My Department understands that the Deputy's question relates to the foundation year course for young adults operated by Trinity College. The Higher Education Authority has for a number of 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 particular 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 over €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.
Overall, in 2002, a total of €706,000 was provided for access measures in Trinity College, under the targeted initiatives. 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 these activities within the Trinity access programmes.
