Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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2149. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to consider expanding the criteria for the Student Assistance Fund by redefining the priority groups to include those who come from lone parent families with low incomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59683/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The Student Assistance Fund (SAF) provides financial assistance to students experiencing financial difficulties while attending higher education. Students on full or part-time courses leading to a higher education award (NQF level 6-10) in the universities, institutes of technology and other approved colleges can apply for the SAF.

The SAF is available to assist all students from approved courses and institutions who are unable to meet costs associated with day-to-day participation in higher education, including:

• Books and other class material that are required to enable students to continue and participate in teaching and learning and/or complete examinations.
• Rent, heating and lighting bills and other utility bills e.g., mobile phone data plans, that are required to enable students to continue and participate in teaching and learning and/or complete examinations.
• Food.
• Essential travel.
• Childcare costs.
• Medical costs.
• Family difficulties e.g., bereavement.