Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2010
356 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will streamline the process associated with the higher education grant in view of the inconsistent application of the grant from one local authority area to another; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2810/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is actively engaged in a programme of legislative and administrative reform of student grants.
The passage of the Student Support Bill will facilitate progress on the two significant pillars of an overall programme of legislative and administrative reform of student grants, the development of a single unified grant scheme and reform of the administration of student grants.
I am endeavouring to progress to a single scheme of grants as provided for in the Bill at the earliest possible date. While the current financial situation may necessitate retention of the existing administrative structures in the immediate term, I am assessing organisational options for the grants administration function in the longer run, with a view to streamlining operations and achieving greater administrative efficiency. Possible options for a more significant aggregation of functions are now being explored within the broader context of budgetary considerations and the Government's overall programme of public service reform. A number of the amendments to the Student Support Bill are at the final stages of preparation and my Department is currently working closely with the Office of the Attorney General to finalise any outstanding matters.
The Department in the meantime is continuing to work closely with both the VECs and local authorities and other relevant stakeholders to develop a number of initiatives to support more effective delivery of the grant schemes. A fundamental review of the entire business process is underway with a view to ensuring consistency of application and a more streamlined and effective service for students. This includes matters relating to application, assessment and payments arrangements.
