Student grant scheme
Charlie McConalogue asks about next year’s SUSI grant scheme and a possible capital-assets test; the Taoiseach reports that 88% of applications have been processed and says no changes have yet reached Cabinet.
In light of the problems with the administration of student grants this year through SUSI, when is the new grant scheme for the upcoming academic year to be laid before the Houses? I refer to the speculation that the Government plans to introduce a capital assets test as part of that grant scheme. Will legislative change be required if this is proceeded with?
Comment on this
I reported yesterday on the up-to-date situation with regard to the SUSI agency and the allocation of student grants. There are almost 6,000 cases where information required has not been submitted over the past six weeks. A total of 88% of applications have been processed and paid. The faults in the system have been identified. I hope it does not happen next year. The Minister for Education and Skills has not as yet brought any proposals to Cabinet for changes in the student grant scheme.
