Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)

I am aware that having to pay this €200 per annum charge presents a challenge for some learners wishing to participate in post leaving certificate courses. However, I would point out that the charge is modest and will be met by the Exchequer in respect of an estimated 50% of students who can claim an exemption from it. The following categories of learners are exempt from paying the charge: full medical card holders and their dependant children, those who are eligible under the student grant scheme and those in receipt of the back to education allowance or vocational training opportunities scheme allowances. These exemptions should ensure that those who are less well off will continue to access post leaving certificate courses.

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