Further and Higher Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 November 2022

Thursday, 24 November 2022

Questions (283)

Gary Gannon

Question:

283. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the reason that those with disabilities partaking in the National Learning Network are being excluded from receiving the disability allowance. [58621/22]

Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

The deputy will be aware that when a National Learning Network student enters training, their disability allowance changes to a training allowance for the duration of the course.

Following consultation with colleagues in the Department of Social Protection, eligible learners, including those attending the National Learning Network, will receive the once-off payment of €500 announced in Budget 2023.

My officials are engaging with SOLAS in relation to arrangements being put in place for the payments to be made. I will be able to provide you with an update once these arrangements are in place.