Student Support Bill 2008
21 Aug 2008 05:01 PM
AONTAS will be working hard over the coming months to influence the Student Support Bill which is now at Committee stage. Although the Bill is most relevant to students registering for the academic year 2009-2010, it is vital that AONTAS keeps up the momentum so that the needs of adult learners inform the Bill.
The main issue of contention for AONTAS is that the Bill defines 'appropriate courses' as full time courses. AONTAS believes that this contradicts a commitment to lifelong learning, by excluding both part-time learners and those accessing distance education initiatives, many of whom are adults returning to learn.
According to AONTAS Director Berni Brady, 'The new Student Support Bill refers to 'appropriate courses', which in reality means full time courses. We are concerned that this may prevent mature students from accessing financial supports for part time study options.'
To read AONTAS submission on the Student Support Bill, click here.
