Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2016
308. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will amend the back-to-education allowance to cover part-time education as those persons who are currently receiving jobseeker's allowance or benefit and wish to study part-time courses in a specific subject due to the unavailability of full-time courses within a reasonable travel distance do not receive adequate support (details supplied). [37525/16]
View answerThe objective of the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) is to assist those who are distant from the labour market acquire the necessary education to improve their chances of becoming independent of the social welfare system. The BTEA scheme is aligned with the student support schemes under the Department of Education and Skills. The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) grant payable by the Department of Education and Skills represents the primary support for persons pursuing education. In general, most BTEA customers pursuing full-time course will also have certain registration and related college fees paid by SUSI.
The Part-Time Education Option (PTEO) allows a jobseeker to retain their Jobseeker’s Allowance or Benefit and attend a part-time day or evening course of education or training. The participant must continue to meet the conditions for Jobseeker’s Allowance or Benefit. This means that they must be able to show they are actively looking for and willing to take up work and that the course is likely to improve their chances of getting employment. If work is offered while on the course they will be expected to accept the job offer.
The Department of Social Protection does not pay any course fees or relocation costs for full-time or part-time studies.
One of the measures announced in Budget 2017 is a new €500 annual Cost of Education Allowance to be made available to full time Back to Education Allowance participants with children. This allowance will incentivise people with children to participate in full time second and third level education and is in line with the Programme for Government commitment to support low-income families. This will be payable for the 2017/2018 academic year.
