Tony Gregory
Ceist:52 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education her response to the submission from part-time students in full-time employment (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2203/96]
Written Answers. - Part-time Students.
I have already indicated that the decision on the abolition of undergraduate tuition fees has to be restricted to fees paid by full-time undergraduate students because the resources available to fund the measure are limited.
I would hope that, as resources become available, it will be possible to provide greater Exchequer support for part-time undergraduate students.
I have no plans to extend the free fees initiative to students engaged in postgraduate studies either on a full-time or part-time basis. Students pursuing postgraduate studies on a full-time basis are eligible for student support subject to satisfying the means test and other requirements of the student support schemes.