Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 20: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will clarify the grant aid available to persons re-entering education on part time courses at third level. [39130/11]

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

Under the Student Grant 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 in duration pursued in an approved institution. Part-time programmes are not eligible for support under the Student Grant or Free Fees schemes. However, tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, is available on third-level tuition fees paid in respect of approved courses at approved higher education institutions including certain approved undergraduate courses in EU Member States and approved postgraduate courses in EU Member States and in non-EU countries.

In addition, as part of the Government's Jobs Initiative, 6,000 part-time places are being funded through Springboard, a specific initiative targeted at unemployed people who have lost jobs in sectors where employment levels will not return and who will need new qualifications and skills. To be eligible for a place on a Springboard course an applicant must have a previous history of employment and, at the time of starting a Springboard course, must be unemployed and in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance, Jobseeker's Benefit or One Parent Family Payment or be signing for contribution credits and be available and actively seeking employment. Full details regarding all Springboard can be found on www.bluebrick.ie.