Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 March 2012
201 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give detailed consideration to the concerns outlined by an organisation (details supplied) in relation to the criteria for higher education grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15802/12]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, I announced last December that the means test for student grants will be amended to take account of the value of certain capital assets as well as income for the 2013/14 academic year. A dedicated Capital Asset Test implementation group has been established. The group has been charged with bringing forward detailed implementation proposals on new means testing arrangements for student grants, to include the value of assets, for new applicants from the 2013/14 academic year. In the circumstances, it is not possible to say at this time what assets may be included. Contrary to the assertions made by the organisation referred to by the Deputy, no decision has been taken on the treatment of farm or other business assets. However, any proposals in this regard will require further Government agreement and necessitate legislative amendment.
