Institutes of Technology.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 January 2010

Tuesday, 19 January 2010

Questions (964)

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

1029 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to an issue at Galway Mayo Institute of Technology where Fáilte Ireland removed funding to students of the total immersion chef programme; his views on the proposal made by Galway Mayo Institute of Technology student’s union that these students be allowed to apply for vocational education committee grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48585/09]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Batt O’Keeffe)

I understand that Fáilte Ireland is engaged in discussions with Institutes of Technology Ireland and the Higher Education Authority in relation to the future management and administration of the programmes in question and the levels of award to be made to participants. However, responsibility for the management of these programmes and related discussions is a matter for Fáilte Ireland and I have no role in the matter.

My Department's student grant schemes, including the maintenance grant scheme for third level trainees, are fully means tested and therefore cannot replace Fáilte Ireland's scheme of attendance-based monthly allowances which are not means tested.