535. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Education and Skills why Student Universal Support Ireland will not accept a sworn affidavit when an applicant's parents are separated and there is no legal separation agreement (details supplied). [45197/15]

An affidavit in isolation is not considered acceptable as sole proof of separation, however, it may be considered as evidence of separation if accompanied by other supporting documentation. The type of other supporting documentation might include a separation agreement, divorce decree, evidence from the Department of Social Protection that either of the applicant's parents is currently in receipt of a payment for a one-parent family situation, such as one-parent family payment or deserted wife's allowance. Ultimately, the applicant has to establish to the satisfaction of the awarding authority that the parents are separated. If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a student grant, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to SUSI.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by SUSI, and remains of the view that the scheme has not been interpreted correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to the independent Student Grant Appeals Board.