Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 October 2019
256. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the criteria for the back to education allowance; her views on whether it is beneficial for all parties to extend the allowance for students completing post-graduate courses that will be advantageous for securing full-time work in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41473/19]
View answerThe back to education allowance scheme (BTEA) provides people with a second chance education that will improve their prospects of securing employment. It enables eligible people to pursue approved education courses and to continue to receive income support for the duration of a course of study, subject to meeting certain conditions.
The BTEA is not intended to provide a basis for a long-duration participation in extended education. In this regard, it mirrors the approach to general education grants such as the Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI). This approach is informed by research evidence. Evidence from econometric studies shows that the 'lock-in' effect of long duration return to education programmes can exceed the progression effect and reduce employment prospects.
In limited cases post-graduate courses can be supported under this scheme. BTEA can be approved where the applicant intends to undertake studies leading to a Higher Diploma (H.Dip) in any discipline or the Professional Masters in Education. Additionally BTEA support may be awarded for a Master’s degree based solely on life experience where the applicant holds no other third level qualification.
The qualification referred to by the Deputy, a Professional Masters in Adult and Community Education, is not covered under the BTEA as it is not a prerequisite for employment in adult education services nor is it an alternative to the Professional Masters in Education required to qualify for a general teaching role.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
