Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
1034. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will consider adding the specific family circumstances of young carers as a ground for determining eligibility for HEAR grants for third level and further education courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13740/23]
View answerMy Department does not have direct responsibility for the HEAR scheme. It is owned and operated by participating Higher Education Institutions. HEAR is a reduced points higher education admissions scheme for Leaving Certificate students (under 23) whose economic or social background are underrepresented in higher education rather than a grant.
HEAR currently has no specific entry mechanism for young carers. Young carers can apply to the scheme but, like other applicants they must meet a combination of socioeconomic indicators to be eligible for HEAR. Applications to HEAR evidencing carer’s allowance in the home are considered as a means tested Social Welfare payment, which is one of HEARs qualifying socioeconomic indicators.
Full details of the criteria can be accessed at HEAR - Access College.
