Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 October 2015
195. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if asylum seekers attending Youthreach centres will receive a weekly allowance in line with the asylum seekers who receive third level college grants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35006/15]
View answerThe announcement earlier this year that students in the asylum protection system will have access to student supports was made to ensure that those students who have completed the Leaving Certificate can continue their education, provided they meet certain criteria, including the completion of five academic years in the Irish school system, and acceptance on a Post Leaving Certificate course or an approved undergraduate course. The Youthreach programme provides education, training and work experience for early school leavers aged 15-20 and as such is not included within the terms of the student support scheme which aims to provide for progression to education beyond Leaving Certificate completion. While non-EU nationals of schoolgoing age are entitled to attend school in Ireland, they are generally not entitled to attend the Youthreach Programme.
