86 Deputy John Cregan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans to allow Irish citizens currently teaching abroad in a non-EU country, who wish to return to Ireland to advance their studies, be exempt from the regulations governing residency status here, in order to qualify for a higher education grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24923/10]

The residency requirement in the State for grant eligibility for the academic year 2010/2011 will be increased from one year to three out of the past five years for the student. This amendment is in line with provisions already outlined in the Student Support Bill. In fact, the change in the residency requirement to three out of the last five years instead of the year immediately before entering college will in many instances provide greater flexibility for students who may be returning from abroad. The new residency requirement will also ensure that persons applying for grants will have more established links with and integration in the State.

The residency requirement must be met by the student him/herself in all cases and is no longer linked to the residency of the parent/legal guardian for certain categories of students. However, a candidate may qualify for a grant, having met the residency requirement during the course of their studies.