asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the resolution which was passed unanimously by the County Councils' General Council on the 5th May, 1972, calling on him to introduce a more equitable scheme of university grants with special reference to those living outside universty cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - University Grants.
26.
The resolution referred to in the Deputy's question has been forwarded to me. I do not accept the inference therein that students whose homes are distant from university centres are not treated equitably in the matter of university grants.
On what basis does the Parliamentary Secretary not agree with the resolution which was passed?
I said I did not accept the inference. In the first instance, Department grants to universities and other third level institutions constitute by far the largest portion of the assistance paid. Secondly, as the Deputy knows, the grants are weighted in favour of students who reside outside a radius of 15 miles from university centres.