Written answers

Tuesday, 15 June 2010

Department of Education and Science

Higher Education Grants

8:00 am

Photo of Joe McHughJoe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 504: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason she does not provide supports to part-time students at a third level facility (details supplied); if any financial supports will be available to students who take the course for the next academic year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25538/10]

Photo of Mary CoughlanMary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Higher Education Grants Scheme operates under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts, 1968 to 1992. Under the scheme, an approved course is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of at least two years duration or a full-time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution. There are no plans at present to extend the scope of the student support schemes to part-time courses.

However, Section 473A, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 provides for tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, for tuition fees paid in respect of approved full-time or part-time courses in both private and publicly funded third level colleges and universities in the State and any other EU Member State. Further details and conditions in relation to this tax relief are available from the Revenue Commissioners.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.