University Students Receiving Grants
The share of university students receiving higher education grants fell from 26.1% in 1976–77 to 22.2% in 1978–79. The Minister pointed to increased scholarships in the technological sector as an explanation, while Horgan argued that this did not address the declining proportion of university students on grants.
asked the Minister for Education the estimated percentage of university students on higher education grants in 1976-77; the percentage for 1978-79; and the increase or decrease.
Comment on this
The percentage of full-time students in the constituent colleges of the National University of Ireland, St. Patrick's College, Maynooth and Trinity College, Dublin, who were holders of grants in accordance with the provisions of the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Act was 26.1 per cent in the academic year 1976-77 and 22.2 per cent in the academic year 1978-79.
Comment on this
Can the Minister explain why, if all he has done in relation to the higher education grant scheme has been so marvellous, the number of students who were in a position to avail of it has gone down dramatically since 1976-77?
Comment on this
More attention is being paid to the regional technical colleges and the technological sector generally. I am glad of this. More students are going there who are enjoying grants and/or scholarships.
Comment on this
Is the Minister not aware that many of the non-university institutions and VEC institutions are covered by the scholarship scheme rather than the grant scheme? The number of third level education grants as such as compared with scholarships, which are attainable outside universities has always been an infinitesimal proportion of the total and that remains the case.
Comment on this
Perhaps I did not make it quite clear about the scholarships to colleges of technology. From 1976-77 to the present there has been an increase of upwards of 400 scholarships. These are in the same range, that is to say up to £600 with fees, as are the grants. Some people leave that out of account. If the student exercises a choice to avail of a scholarship he has the same money coming to him as if he got a grant. In fact, it is a grant under a different name.
Comment on this
Would the Minister not agree that the figures indicate that he has failed to increase the proportion of university students on grants?
Comment on this
On the face of it I would say that looks as if it is the case. I am saying there is a diversion—this is something that the Deputy and others have sought in our educational system, namely, more concentration on the technological area. I am pleased to see the emphasis and the money going there.