Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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233. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if there is a mechanism available to a mature student to recommence a course at degree level, if they already have a masters qualification, to improve their employment prospects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1258/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The position is that under the terms of my Department's Free Fee Schemes the Exchequer meets the cost of tuition fees in respect of eligible students who are pursuing their first undergraduate full-time course of study which must be a minimum of two years duration in an approved higher education institution. Students who already hold a qualification (at degree level or above) do not qualify for funding under the schemes. However, where a student is unemployed they may qualify under the Springboard programme which targets funding of free part-time flexible higher education courses up to masters degree level for unemployed and previously self-employed people in areas where there are identified labour market skills shortages or employment opportunities.

Springboard places are open to unemployed people who have a previous history of employment and there is no requirement that a person be progressing on the National Framework of Qualifications. Further information on Springboard, including a list of courses that are currently open for application, is available on the dedicated information and applications website: www.springboardcourses.ie.