James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy is right; the cost will increase. The non-adjacent grant is greater for that reason. A student will receive more significant support if they live farther away from the college and it begins to taper down the closer they live to the college to reflect the fact they may not require accommodation or that their transport costs may be less if they live adjacent to the college. All the non-adjacent bands increased this year for that reason, to reflect the reality that it is going to be more expensive if a student is required to travel to their institution.

The Deputy has made good points and I am happy to take them on board. I will continue to do so as we consider all these measures.

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