Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2004
305 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if there are plans to introduce a student loan scheme for Irish nursing students studying in the UK, with only tuition fees and not maintenance being paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5937/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the terms of my Department's higher education maintenance grant schemes, students from the State who are attending undergraduate courses in the UK, including courses in nursing, can apply for maintenance grants in respect of approved courses at higher national diploma level or higher, which are pursued in colleges approved for the purpose of the schemes. Under the terms of the schemes, grants are not available in respect of tuition fees paid at undergraduate level outside of the State. However, all EU students, including students from this State, may be eligible for grant assistance towards the cost of tuition fees from the relevant UK authorities, subject to the same conditions as apply to students who have been resident in the UK. My Department has no plans at present with regard to the introduction of a student loan scheme.
Tax-relief has been available for tuition fees paid for full-time, qualifying undergraduate courses in publicly-funded universities or similar third level colleges in any EU member state, including the UK, since 1999/2000.
