Student Grant Scheme Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 December 2012

Thursday, 20 December 2012

Questions (120)

Willie Penrose

Question:

120. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Skills in view of the tardiness of payments by the new structure, Student Universal Support Ireland, in respect of determining a person's eligibility for higher education grants, if persons could be paid at least half of the sum due under the said grant, as these grants will not be paid until December/January in respect of moneys, to which they are entitled in November; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57686/12]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

When a students entitlement to a maintenance grant is established for the full academic year 2012/13 and an award has been made, he or she has been or will be paid the appropriate number of instalments, including any instalments due since the commencement of the academic year. SUSI made its first payment to students on the 19th October and is continuing to make payments on a weekly basis to ensure students can get paid their grant as expeditiously as possible, once they have been awarded a grant. This will continue over the holiday period, with payments on the 21st December and 28th December. Those awarded a grant must supply bank account details and confirmation of registration must be received from the institution in order for the grant to be paid.