Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 June 2016
200. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost of extending third level and post-leaving certificate supports to students in the asylum-seeking process who have been in the school system for five years or more; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14563/16]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that a Pilot Support Scheme was introduced last year for students who are in the Protection System or at the Leave to Remain (but not deportation order) stage. The scheme was intended to provide supports to qualifying students which were similar to those available in the statutory based Student Grant Scheme. A total of 39 applicants applied for the pilot scheme last year with 2 qualifying for support. The cost of the Pilot Support Scheme for the 2015/16 academic year was €9,000. Last week I announced the continuation of the Pilot Support Scheme for those in the protection system for 2016/17. It is envisaged that the costs for 2016/17 will be in line with those for 2015/16.
