Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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131. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on whether a special education grant should be given for third level education to cover costs for sufferers of the unique Narcolepsy disorder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23537/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I can confirm for the Deputy that the Fund for Students with Disabilities provides support for students with disabilities, including those with narcolepsy, so that students can participate fully in further and higher education.

The Fund for Students with Disabilities is managed by the HEA on behalf of my Department. Typical supports for which funding is approved include assistive technology, academic or learning support and personal assistants. Students do not apply directly to the Fund; rather, funding is allocated to the institution on the student's behalf based on an assessment of the particular needs of the student.

The Student Assistance Fund is also available to third-level institutions to assist students in exceptional financial need.

The Disability Access Route (D.A.R.E) to education is a college and university admissions scheme which offers places on a reduced points basis to school leavers with disabilities. The scheme is operated by a number of higher education institutions. Admissions to the institutions under this programme are regulated by the institutions themselves. Further details are available at www.accesscollege.ie.

Additional information on the student grant, the Student Assistance Fund and the Fund for Students with Disabilities can be found at www.studentfinance.ie.