Student Grant Scheme Appeals

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 December 2013

Tuesday, 17 December 2013

Questions (219)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

219. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a person (details supplied) was told an appeal had been accepted on two occasions by Student Universal Support Ireland telephone operators, only for the decision to change at a later date; the outcome and rationale of the final decision of this appeal; the reason for the change in decision; the amount this person must now pay in fees to continue in education; the reason the person was not assessed as a second chance student; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54017/13]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

Article 13(6) is the relevant article in the 2013 student grant scheme providing for second chance students.Where a mature student previously attended but did not successfully complete a course and re - enters an approved course, following a break in studies of at least five years, he/she shall be considered a "second chance student". Officials in my Department have been informed by Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) that the student referred to by the Deputy did not meet the criteria for second chance student as she did not have a five year break. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by SUSI, and remains of the view that SUSI has not interpreted the scheme correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to the Student Grants Appeals Board. The relevant appeal form is available to download from http://www.studentfinance.ie/downloads/1375344221/2013_SGAB_appeal_form.pdf.The issue of payment of fees is a matter for the student and the institute which she is attending.