Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 953: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if non-EU national students are required to have a record of 80% course attendance; and if so, the legal basis of this requirement and when it was first introduced; the consequences for students who have less that this benchmark attendance; if personal circumstances such as illness may be considered when the 80% standard is not met in order to mitigate negative consequences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32480/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm to the Deputy that full time Non-EEA students are required to show an attendance record of 80% on their course of study as evidence that they are pursuing their studies while present in the State. This requirement was introduced on an administrative basis and has been in place for a considerable time. Students who do not meet the required attendance level may be denied further registration as a student with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. I can confirm that the immigration authorities do take into account any exceptional circumstances which may prevent a student from attaining the required attendance. Such exceptional circumstances would include serious illness.