172 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the VTOS travel allowance and the VTOS meal allowance; the comparison allowance rates for each of the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35077/06]

VTOS students may be entitled to a travel allowance if they reside more than 3 miles from a centre. The rates of the travel and meal allowance are equivalent to those paid to participants on FÁS training courses. They are increased periodically in line with increases in FÁS rates; the current rates outlined below are in operation since 2002.

3-5 miles €4.60, 5-10 miles €11.90, 10-20 miles €17.60, 20-30 miles €21.60, 30-40 miles €27.70 and 40-50 miles €32.60. The meal allowance is €0.80 per day.