Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 September 2008
562 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will establish a fund to abolish part-time fees for students in third level education as is stated in both the Programme for Government 2007 to 2012 and Towards 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31891/08]
View answerIn the context of the recent social partnership discussions the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Social Partners and relevant agencies to actively encourage and support those at work, who have not previously pursued a third level qualification up to level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications, to take up part-time courses in publicly funded third level institutions. Decisions in relation to the establishment of any funds in relation to part time fees will be taken having regard to overall funding requirements for third level education and future Budgetary decisions.
