Vol. 527 No. 4
181 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the substantial additional costs incurred by art and design students in respect of course materials; if he will consider the introduction of a special bursary for students faced with these costs and in particular to facilitate greater participation of students from low income families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28869/00]
My officials are examining the general question of materials costs incurred by students, including those pursuing art and design courses, with a view to identifying the issues and costs involved.
On 11 November, I announced that I was setting up a special project team to carry out a comprehensive review of every aspect of the maintenance grants, and other student supports, to ensure their relevance to the needs of present day third level students. This review will include the level of grants, the methods by which they are paid, eligibility and income limits, accommodation needs, student support services, the most suitable paying agency, the provision of an appeals system, student loans and taxation measures. The issue of materials costs for students will be considered in this context. The project team is to report to me by the end of March 2001.
With regard to facilitating greater participation in third level education by students from low income families, I established an action group on access to third level education, in September of this year. This action group will advise me on the development of a co-ordinated framework to promote participation at third level by students in three target groups – students with disabilities, students from disadvantaged backgrounds and mature second chance students. It will, inter alia, advise on the development of targeted interventions and actions at all levels. I have asked the group to provide a report to me within three months.
The need to target resources at those most in need is well recognised and underpins my approach to tackling disadvantage. In this regard there is provision within the national development plan for a third level access fund totalling £95 million over the period of the plan, aimed at tackling under-representation by the three target groups. The objective of this measure is to facilitate and improve access to the labour market for the beneficiaries while improving their long-term employability through enhancing their educational qualifications.
As an indication of the Government's support in promoting equity in access and as an initial step, pending the findings of the action group, I announced the introduction of a special maintenance grant payable to disadvantaged grant holders, targeted at those most in need. The full rate of the special maintenance grant will increase from £1,775 to £2,000 for students residing more than 15 miles from college; and from £710 to £1,000 for students resident within 15 miles of college.
