Brian O'Shea
Ceist:360 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals he has to ease the 15 mile rule regarding the payment of the higher level of third level grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14756/01]
Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants.
Under the terms of the student support schemes, maintenance grants are payable to eligible students at either the adjacent or the non-adjacent rate. Except in the case of mature students, the adjacent rate of maintenance grant is payable where the grantholder's normal residence is 15 miles or less from the college being attended. The non-adjacent rate of maintenance grant is payable in all other cases.
The 15 mile condition is considered to be not unreasonable and there are no plans at present to change it.