496 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to abolish capitation fees which have risen by over 260% over the past 11 years for third level students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3458/07]

The student charge is levied by third level institutions to defray the costs of examinations, registration and students services. The student charge is €800 for the 2006/2007 academic year. All students who are eligible for means tested student support have the student charge paid on their behalf by the Local Authorities or the Vocational Education Committees, in addition to any maintenance grant and tuition fee grant they are entitled to. I have no plans to abolish this charge.