Gay Mitchell
Ceist:239 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 in view of the circumstances of the case and the reply received to date. [16064/97]
Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants.
The first year of the programme attended by the pupil in question is aided by the European Social Fund as a post-leaving certificate course and is provided in Coláiste Íde, Finglas. There is no tuition charge for this element of the programme.
The remainder of the programme consists of six months practical work experience with the final six months taking place in Trinity College Dublin. Under the free fees initiative, tuition fees are payable in respect of eligible students who are attending full-time undergratuate courses, other than European Social Fund (ESF) aided courses, which must, other than exceptionally, be of at least two years duration at approved third level institutions. Accordingly, the pharmaceutical technician course does not come within the scope of the free fees initiative.
I have, however, asked my officials to consult with the Higher Education Authority about the arrangements that apply at present in relation to this course.