asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that there is considerable delay in the payment of university grants to those who have qualified for them; and if in view of the hardship imposed in some cases he will have the matter investigated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - University Grants.
47.
I have had a small number of complaints of delay in the payment of higher education grants. Payment of the grants is made by the local authorities in accordance with their published schemes. I will do what I can to help if particulars of any case involving hardship to a student are supplied to me.
That should be a matter for top priority because great hardship is caused in some of these cases if the grants are not paid promptly.
I agree with the Deputy. If any particulars are given to me I shall be glad to examine the matter.
A general exhortation to the local authority would fill the bill. Do not wait for complaints.
As far as the Government are concerned, there is no difficulty; the money is available. If there is a blockage in the local authorities I shall look into it.
The Minister should consult the local authorities and ask them to make the grants available as quickly as possible. Some of the students find it hard to exist on the grants they have got.
Deputy Spring comes from County Kerry, and the counties that have benefited most under the scheme—fair play to the brains involved—from a percentage increase point of view are the counties ranging right along the Western seaboard from Kerry to Donegal.
The local authorities are to blame for not looking after the students.