Vol. 531 No. 3
446 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made by his Department regarding the action group set up by his predecessor to assist disadvantaged students to enter third level education with particular reference to the four targeted groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5876/01]
Last September I established an action group on access to third level education, to advise me on the development of a co-ordinated national framework to promote the participation, at third level, of students with disabilities, students from disadvantaged backgrounds and mature "second chance" students, building on the experience of current initiatives.
The main remit of the group was to advise on the barriers to participation by disadvantaged students in higher education, with particular regard to the commitment by this Government to provide £95 million, under the national development plan, to tackle under-representation.
I understand that the action group has now completed its deliberations and I expect to receive its report this week. On its receipt, I will give full consideration to the report and its recommendations.
