Micheál Martin
Ceist:113 Mr. Martin asked the Minister for Education if she intends to introduce measures to subsidise fees paid by Irish students attending the Open University. [16440/95]
Written Answers. - Third Level Fees.
The decision on the abolition of undergraduate tuition fees covers tuition fees paid by full-time undergraduate students attending publicly funded and certain other designated third level institutions. I am sympathetic to the position of night students and other part-time students, including those involved through distance education, but it was necessary to focus Exchequer support because resources are limited. I would hope that, as resources become available, it will be possible to provide more Exchequer support for third level undergraduate students attending courses at night and on a part-time basis or through distance education. The funding for the undergraduate fees initiative was secured by redirecting savings from the abolition of tax covenant reliefs.