Richard Bruton
Ceist:368 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department will establish a means for the central assessment of the payment criteria and the payment methods for grants. [25695/98]
Written Answers - Student Support Schemes.
I accept that the current administration of the student support schemes should be improved. As the Deputy is aware, a joint working group involving officials from my Department and the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs carried out an examination of various options and the possible role of that Department in any new system. Following their preliminary report, our officials are undertaking a more detailed review. This review will involve the participation of interested parties. I have previously indicated that no irrevocable decisions will be taken in relation to any future arrangements without appropriate consultation with all interested parties.