Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:135. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding the SUSI grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30421/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 28 June 2017
Ceisteanna (135)
Freagraí scríofa
The 2017 scheme and regulations were published in late March. The 2017 scheme includes an amendment to the income threshold for the special rate of grant which has increased from €22,703 to €23,000. This change reflects the recent budget increases to the Old Age Contributory Pension and ensures that qualifying families dependent on welfare, will continue to qualify for the highest grant support possible.
The Student Grant Scheme provides for different levels of income thresholds where families have (i) less than 4 dependent children (ii) between 4 and 7 dependent children and (iii) 8 or more dependent children. In 2017, the highest income threshold for a family of less than 4 dependent children, is €54,240. In addition to this and in recognition of the additional cost to families where more than one person is attending college, income thresholds may be increased by a further €4,980 for each additional family member attending college at the same time.
The income thresholds and rates of maintenance grant under the Student Grant Scheme are announced annually as part of the Budget process. No changes to the rates or thresholds were included in Budget 2017. However, in line with the Programme for Government commitment, provision was made to reintroduce maintenance grants for the most disadvantaged postgraduate students.