Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 9 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 1

Written Answers - Higher Education Grants.

Paul Bradford

Ceist:

421 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the terms of the higher education grants scheme have been amended in such a manner as to disallow payment of a grant in respect of a second period of attendance at the same level of an approved course; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this change in regulations has had a negative effect on a small number of students including a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will review this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3668/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

Under the terms of the third level student support schemes, candidates who have previously pursued an undergraduate course approved for the purposes of the schemes shall not be eligible for grant assistance until they have completed an equivalent period of study at undergraduate level, irrespective of whether or not a grant was paid previously. As the student in question has already pursued year one of a diploma course and is now pursuing year one of a degree course she is ineligible for grant assistance for this year. She will, however, be eligible to apply for a grant for the remaining years of her course.

These provisions are designed to avoid the payment of grants to students who repeat year levels on different courses. However, I would point out to the Deputy that there is provision within the schemes for students who hold a national certificate or diploma to progress to degree level courses.