Tom Sheahan (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 624: To ask the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 1441 of 27 January 2009, if he or the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland have directed local authorities and vocational education committees regarding the placement of the postgraduate diploma in education as a level nine diploma enabling the applicant access to college grants and fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4528/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The progression route at postgraduate level, for grant purposes, is as follows: Higher Diploma/Postgraduate Diploma, Masters, PhD/Doctorate.

The Higher Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma qualifications are considered to be at the same level for grants purposes. A candidate who already holds a Higher Diploma/Postgraduate Diploma is only eligible for grant aid under the student maintenance grant schemes when progressing to either a masters or a doctorate qualification. The grant awarding authorities are aware that this is the progression route at postgraduate level for grants purposes.

The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland is the agency with responsibility for developing and maintaining the National Framework of Qualifications. I understand that the postgraduate diploma in education is not currently aligned to the framework but that consultations are on-going in relation to the issue.