Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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663. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason the back to education allowance does not allow for a second Erasmus year (details supplied); if he will consider changing the scheme to allow for a second year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61631/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Back to Education Allowance provides income support for jobseekers and others in receipt of certain social welfare payments who pursue courses of education at further and higher level. The Government has provided almost €30 million for the scheme in 2025.

Under the Back to Education Allowance a qualified person can take up a full-time course of study leading to a recognised qualification subject to meeting the eligibility criteria of the scheme. The scheme covers participation in a wide range of education and upskilling courses and the Department's Employment Personal Advisor works with the applicant to consider their options in line with their personal progression plan.

The Erasmus+ Programme is an EU exchange student programme that aims to provide foreign exchange options for students from within the European Union. Back to Education Allowance can continue in payment for the EU Erasmus+ Programme in circumstances where it is a mandatory part of their course of study. This would normally apply for one year.

If the Deputy has a query in respect of an individual case whereby there is a mandatory Erasmus requirement for more than one year, he should provide the details to my Department for review.

I trust this clarifies the matter.