Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 November 2013
68. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of students who have not yet received Student Universal Support Ireland grants for this academic term despite having been awarded same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50936/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) that when an applicant is awarded a grant the applicant gets paid as soon as possible after they submit their bank accounts details and their institutions confirm their attendance. While most applicants have provided SUSI with their bank details a number of applicants have not done so. SUSI is in regular e-mail/social media contact with these applicants to get this information.
As at close of business on 24 November, 2013 for the 2013/14 academic year 68,073 new applications and 23,495 renewal applications had been received by SUSI. Of these 31,931 new applications have been awarded or provisionally awarded and 20,017 renewal applications have been awarded. 25,594 new applicants and 19,190 renewals have been paid maintenance or have been awarded a "fees only" grant. Payments to students awarded a "fees only" grant (either the student contribution or fees) are made directly to the relevant institution on receipt of an appropriate invoice from the institute.
