Dr. Aedín Doris:

I do not know how widespread that was, but it certainly did not help costs. If private sector provision is to be included careful regulation is needed.

Senator Ruane asked how a loan system would help access. The truth is that I do not think it will help access. Rather, it will not discourage access. I am absolutely convinced that all of the evidence from other countries is that it does not discourage access. Access issues are much more complicated. The maintenance grant issue is much more important.

The biggest problem in terms of access is at second and primary levels. We can do some work at third level to increase access, but the maintenance grant is much more important than the provision of a loan that is only repayable if earnings go beyond a certain level. I am very concerned about access.

If I thought loans would hinder access I would not advocate for them. Access is a central consideration, and I am convinced that all of the evidence from other countries shows that loans do not hinder access. I am not saying they are a solution to access. Solutions to access are difficult to develop, but at least loans do not hinder access.