Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 May 2016
518. Deputy Frank O'Rourke asked the Minister for Social Protection if data are available on the number of students aged 18 to 20 in full-time second level education who are not eligible for child benefit; the cost of extending child benefit to students aged 18 to 20 in full-time second level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13567/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department does not hold data on children over the age of 18, as this is not required for the administration of the child benefit scheme. Accordingly, the Department does not have details on the number of children aged 18-20 who are in full-time second level education and is not in a position to put a figure on the number of children in this age group who are not eligible for child benefit.
In the absence of detail on the number involved it is not possible to estimate the cost of extending child benefit to this age group.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
