Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to a section in the new programme for Government 2007, under the heading Improved Opportunities in Further and Higher Education which states that more students will be enabled to qualify for the top-up grant; the way she envisages same being brought about; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29026/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I am pleased to be able to inform the Deputy that I secured approval for a 10% increase in the standard rate of student grant with effect from September 2007. This very substantial increase, at twice the rate of inflation, will benefit over 56,000 students who receive a maintenance grant to attend higher and further education. In addition, over 13,200 students are expected to benefit from a more substantial increase, of over 14%, for the Special Rate of Maintenance Grant, with the maximum rate for 2007/08 increasing to €6,690.

Financial barriers have long been recognised as a major disincentive for many students who wish to access third level education. The significant increase in the ordinary rate of maintenance grant, at twice the level of inflation, will make the third level option more affordable for a broad range of students and their families. In line with the commitment under the new Programme for Government, in approving an even higher increase in the Special Rate of Maintenance Grant, I am further targeting financial support at those most in need to encourage access to further and higher education for everyone.

This Government's continued commitment to supporting high rates of participation in third level education, at all levels of society, will ensure that Ireland continues to attract and maintain investment in high quality jobs and that the fruits of the economy can be enjoyed by all.