Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 4 Dec 1997

Vol. 484 No. 2

Written Answers. - University Fees.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

47 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is intended to abolish university fees for evening students at universities particularly in view of the anomalies that currently arise whereby a full-time student from a wealthy family is absolved of the obligation to pay tuition fees while an unemployed person doing an evening degree is liable for fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21624/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

Under the free fees initiative, the State meets the tuition fees of eligible students who are attending full-time undergraduate courses, which must generally be of at least two years' duration, at approved colleges. Over 28,000 students benefited under the intiative in 1995-96 at a cost to the Exchequer of £54.5 million in 1996. The free fees initiative does not extend to students pursuing part-time or evening courses.

The latest available figures in relation to part-time students are those in respect of the 1995-96 academic year when there were some 22,000 part-time students at third level. Data is not readily available in relation to fee levels. However, using an average estimated fee of £1,200 for 22,000 students the cost of extending the free fees initiative to part-time students would be in the region of £26 million. Any decision on extending eligibility for free fees would have to have regard to the availability of resources and other competing needs in the education sector.

In its report, the Steering Committee on the Future Development of Higher Education, referred to the profile of part-time students and noted that almost 90 per cent were in employment. In this context, tax relief is available, at the standard rate under section 15 of the Finance Act, 1996, for tuition fees paid by eligible students attending approved part-time third level courses.

I would also point out that under the third level allowance scheme adminstered by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs unemployed people can pursue third level education on a full-time basis.