Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 June 2021
318. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if the back to education allowance can be made available in a case (details supplied) in which the person is in receipt of the pandemic unemployment payment has a level 9 qualification since 2018 and cannot secure employment with that qualification; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34002/21]
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 be an alternative form of funding for people entering or re-entering the third level education system or to provide a basis for a long-duration participation in extended education. The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) grant represents the primary support for persons pursuing education.
In limited cases post-graduate courses can be supported under the BTEA. This support 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 level 9 Msc in business economics referred to by the Deputy is not covered under the BTEA.
I trust this clarifies the position.
