Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2013
143. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will introduce an administrative independent appeals and complaints mechanism for those students who are currently experiencing delays in students grants and who feel they have been unfairly refused a student grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2689/13]
View answerAn initial appeal to the relevant grant awarding authority is provided for under the Student Support Act 2011. This provides for a review of the decision by an appeals officer, independently of the original assessment process.
If the grant applicant is still not satisfied with the outcome of the initial appeal, a further appeal can be made to the Student Grants Appeals Board which is fully independent in the performance of its functions.
Student Universal Support Ireland operates a complaints procedure to facilitate applicants who may wish to lodge a complaint in connection with the manner in which they have been dealt with by the awarding authority or any of its support staff.
