Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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159. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider the provision of an allowance in respect of a health course (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19440/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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The position is that the third level institutions are autonomous institutions and my Department does not have any function in their day to day operational affairs, for which the Governing Bodies and the management staff of the institutions are responsible.

Students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund. This Fund assists students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances. Details of this fund are available from the Access Office in the third level institution attended.