John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 109: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he has any plans to increase vocational education committee grants for mature students in view of the fact that the grant as it stands does not cover expenses incurred by students and as a result many are dropping out of college or not taking up places. [20610/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I regret that the economic circumstances of the country are such that I am not in a position to alter the rates of grants paid to students. However, students on particularly low incomes will continue to receive a "top-up" in the special rate of grant and the Student Assistance Fund at some €5 million continues to be made available through the access offices of third-level institutions to assist students in exceptional financial need. The access offices themselves will also provide support and advice to students to help them to continue with their studies.