Olwyn Enright
Ceist:228 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if the review of third level education is being carried out solely by members of his Department or if experts are being consulted as part of the review. [19230/02]
Written Answers. - Student Support Schemes.
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:230 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects the review into third level education to be completed. [19232/02]
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:231 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the exact areas his review on third level education is inquiring into. [19233/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 228, 230 and 231 together.
My Department is currently conducting a review of student support provisions aimed at ensuring that the benefits of the substantial investment being made are maximised. This review will cover a range of topics relating to the schemes of student support, including the level of maintenance grants, eligibility and income limits with respect to the grants and the free fees initiative.
Officials of my Department are conducting the review. However, some issues require the engagement of external expertise. In this regard, the Economic and Social Research Institute has been commissioned to carry out research on a number of issues relevant to the review. Relevant recently published reports will also inform the work of the review group.
It is anticipated that the review will be completed in time to give sufficient notice of decisions which will impact on students intending to enter third level education in the 2003-2004 academic year.