Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for the detailed response. I acknowledge an increase was given this year by the previous Government. There has been an increase in applications which is to be welcomed and expected, given the predicament in which we find ourselves. It is something we have to promote and improve.

Education is one of the primary ways out of the situation in which those whom we represent find themselves. I ask the Minister to be open to suggestions from all Deputies on gaps in the current scheme. Some people cannot access it through no fault of their own. Some people have returned from abroad and wish to avail of opportunities to further their education in order to make themselves more accessible to the employment market.

There is a grey area in the adjudication system on one moving a grade above what one has already achieved. I ask the Minister to allow us to make suggestions in that regard. I know of a woman who has a primary degree, a higher diploma and a masters degree. She wished to study a further higher diploma to avail of a teaching opportunity but unfortunately could not access a grant. If she wants to pursue further study it will be at great cost to her. In these times such people are the very ones we have to congratulate and help.

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