Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2016
216. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person who was made redundant in May 2016 and received statutory redundancy in July 2016 is eligible for the back to education allowance on a level 8 course commencing in September 2017 where the person applies to the CAO for said course in November 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33318/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraA person wishing to pursue a course of study under the back to education allowance (BTEA) scheme must satisfy a number of conditions. These include age, being in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for a specific period, pursuing a full-time course of study leading to a recognised qualification in a recognised college and progressing in the level of education with reference to the National Framework of Qualifications.
Jobseekers awarded statutory redundancy under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967–2012 have access to the BTEA scheme immediately on being made redundant or within one year of the award of the statutory redundancy. The jobseeker must establish an entitlement to a relevant social welfare payment immediately prior to commencement of an approved course of study. A jobseeker that opts for voluntary redundancy cannot be approved for BTEA under this provision.
In general, the BTEA can be approved where the course of study leads to a higher qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications other than that already held by the applicant up to a level 8.
For specific guidance on an individual case, a jobseeker should make an appointment to meet with a Departmental case officer in their local Intreo office.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
