Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
1141. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if the Fund for Students with Disabilities will be expanded to include students who attend agricultural colleges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15072/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe purpose of the Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD) is to assist higher education institutions in ensuring students with disabilities have the necessary assistance and equipment to enable them access, fully participate in and successfully complete their chosen course of study.
The FSD is one of the main funding sources supporting participation by students with disabilities in approved higher education courses in Ireland.
The FSD for higher education institutions is managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) on behalf of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS).
The agricultural colleges referred to by the Deputy are not funded by my Department or through the HEA and are therefore not eligible for FSD Funding.
