4176. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will clarify the details regarding the re-introduction of fees for PLCs (details supplied). [55188/26]

My Department is committed to supporting access to further and higher education and to reducing the cost of participation for learners wherever possible. Budget 2022 provided for the abolition of the €200 PLC levy with effect from the 2022/23 academic year. Budget 2024 built on this commitment by providing an additional €3 million to support the removal of PLC fees across the ETB sector with effect from September 2024. Eligible PLC students can access SUSI maintenance grants, with increased supports of up to €7,936 for the 2026/27 academic year. These measures help more people participate in education, gain valuable skills, and take the next step towards employment, further study, and lifelong learning.

The funding provided by my Department was intended to remove PLC fees charged by ETBs. However, it does not affect the arrangements set out in Circulars 36/1995 and 13/2011, which permit providers to seek contributions towards costs directly attributable to course participation and delivery. These may include charges for specific course materials and equipment, mandatory certifications, examination fees, professional registrations, student services and other course-related costs. The level and nature of these charges can vary across ETBs and between individual courses. ETBs are expected to ensure that learners are informed of any costs in a clear and transparent manner.

The examples cited by the Deputy in relation to Waterford and Dungarvan Colleges of Further Education relate to matters that fall within the operational responsibility of Waterford and Wexford ETB.