Brian Walsh (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 81: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if, in view of changes to both the economy and the jobs market which have required persons to retrain and adapt in accordance with demand, he will consider removing the qualification criterion for student grants that currently precludes applicants from receiving funding in respect of a degree at the same level of that which they have already attained. [35220/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In general, students who previously pursued a course of study are not eligible for grant assistance for a second period of study at the same level, irrespective of whether or not a grant was paid previously. Subject to the conditions of the student grant scheme, grants are available where students are progressing to a course at a higher level. The objective of this policy is to assist as many students as possible in obtaining one qualification at each level of study.

I have no plans to change the current arrangements. Any such proposal would have to be considered in light of existing resources and other competing demands in the education sector. However, the students to which the Deputy refers may be eligible for tax relief for their tuition fees. Details in relation to this are available on www.revenue.ie