Under existing rules, students attending private colleges are not eligible for free fees or for maintenance grants. Mark Kane, a student at Griffith College Dublin, refused to accept this ruling and has been fighting since 2006 for a maintenance grant. 

Mark's mother is disabled, his father is a stay-at-home carer and they survive on a disability allowance and a carer's allowance. Mark has been working part-time for the last three years to support himself and his family.

The student was backed in his demands by the Higher Education Colleges Association, which represents the private colleges sector.

Faced with a High Court case, the Department of Education initially agreed to pay Mark a two years' maintenance grant and all his legal costs, but insisted on a confidentiality clause.

This was rejected by Mark, who wanted the case to be heard in public so that other students in similar circumstances would benefit.

Prior to the court hearing, the Department conceded the full maintenance costs and full legal fees and also dropped the confidentiality demand. (Source: Irish Independent)