Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2013
215. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that any decisions made in relation to third level education in budget 2014 will protect equality of opportunity; that financially vulnerable students will be adequately supported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41980/13]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the reality of our economic situation presents significant challenges that have to be reconciled with limitations on public resources. This is a very stark reality, which, unfortunately, means that changes to any public service, including the student grant scheme, cannot be ruled out.
I empathise with students and I am very conscious of the fundamental role played by the student grant scheme in supporting families who are putting their children through further and higher education. However, the state of the public finances is such that tough decisions had to be made to control public expenditure and to ensure sustainability in the long run.
For this reason it is the responsibility of Government to take into consideration all areas of public services when formulating Budget 2014. Ultimately, our budgetary decisions now will play a major part in creating a sustainable economy and in regaining our economic independence. As the Deputy will be aware all proposals made in relation to education expenditure including changes to student grants will be considered in the context of the Budget 2014.
