Vol. 501 No. 2
343 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will introduce a grant for those doing a degree by night who are part of community development activities and are enhancing their ability to serve their community. [5739/99]
In general, under the terms of the third level student support schemes, means tested maintenance grants are made available to eligible students who are pursuing full time third level courses of at least two years duration at undergraduate level.
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 I would point out that tax relief is available at the standard rate, under section 15 of the Finance Act, 1996, for tuition fees paid by eligible students who are attending approved part-time third level courses.
