Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 October 2012
234. Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the financial supports available for mature students who undertake third level study in addition to the higher education grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46088/12]
View answerIn additional to support under the Student Grant Scheme mature students can apply for a place on a Springboard course. Springboard, which was first launched in May 2011, is a specific initiative that strategically targets funding of free part-time higher education courses for unemployed people in areas where there are identified labour market skills shortages or employment opportunities. To be eligible for a place on a Springboard course a person must be unemployed, actively seeking employment, and be in receipt of one of the qualifying payments from the Department of Social Protection or be signing for credits or be previously self employed. Full details can be accessed on the dedicated Springboard website www.springboardcourses.ie.
Other supports available to students include the Student Assistance Fund which will continue to be made available through the access offices of third-level institutions to assist students in exceptional financial need. In addition, tax relief at the standard rate of tax may be claimed in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education. Further information on this tax relief is available from the Revenue Commissioners.
