Third-level study ‘still not affordable for thousands’
The union is still reeling from the implication of the grants shortfall in regards to social welfare recipients being encouraged to return to study, as unveiled by Social Protection Minister Éamon O Cuív.
Social welfare recipients need only be getting support for nine rather than 12 months to qualify for the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) for the upcoming college year, except those who have been receiving illness benefit for whom a two-year qualifying period will still apply. The payment will also be available for the first time to those returning to a course or starting, rather than just those starting the first year of a study programme.
