Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 92: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a further increase in student contribution fees and post-leaving certificate fees can be avoided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27728/11]

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 111: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will place an immediate freeze on third level student contribution fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27865/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 111 together.

The reality of the economic situation and the public expenditure corrections which must be made present challenges to the Higher Education sector. Future demand for participation growth needs to be reconciled with limitations on public resources and a need to protect and enhance core quality. Although the nature of these difficult trade-offs are described in the National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030, the strategy also identifies the need for more detailed analysis.

I have asked the Higher Education Authority to undertake further work on the sustainability of the existing funding framework, the intention of which is to assess the inter-relationship and tensions between three parameters of: growth in student numbers, funding constraints and quality. This work will inform consideration by Government of policy options in relation to future funding of the higher education sector. I am anxious to ensure that any new funding framework will not impact on access for students.

In relation to Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses, Budget 2011 provided for the introduction of a €200 annual PLC programme participant contribution, with effect from this September (the 2011/2012 academic year). Decisions in relation to such funding matters are generally made as part of the annual Estimates process. Full medical card holders (in their own right and their dependant children), those eligible under the student grant scheme and those in receipt of the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) or Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) allowances are exempt from paying the contribution, which should ensure that those who are less well off will continue to access PLC courses.