PLC students demand grants

STUDENTS from low income backgrounds are having to drop out of their studies. If you are doing a Post-Leaving Certificate course you get no grant. Nothing at all. A survey in Ballyfermot Senior College found that 48% of these students have to work long hours after lectures to find the cash to keep them in college. 97% said that their jobs interfered with their course work. Not everyone can burn the candle at both ends. Some students are finding it impossible to study and then work twenty or more hours each week.

Because these students are mainly working class the government cares even less about them than it does about other students. They are not all taking it lying down. There has already been a march of about 100 to the Dail. Students from Ballyfermot, Colaiste Dhulaigh, Portlaoise and six other colleges have kicked off a campaign. Students in RTC’s, DIT and universities get grants. PLC students have a good case, they are the only post-second level students who are allowed nothing.

In the autumn the campaign for grants should be re- launched. It has already gained support from the Teachers Union of Ireland and the Dublin Council of Trade Unions.