Calls for reform of education allowance payments

Further calls have been made to change back-to-education payment rules that keep some lone parents from accessing third-level education.

Homeless mum, Erica Fleming, appealed this week to Social Protection Minister, Leo Varadkar, to reverse the changes that have seen her and others ineligible for his department’s back to education allowance (BTEA).

She fears being unable to take up her place next month on the foundation course at Trinity College Dublin which would give her a strong chance to study for a degree at the university.