Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2019
60. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review and amend the income disregards for student grants to take account of flood relief payments received from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21199/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe statutory based Student Grant Scheme and Student Support Regulations are reviewed annually by my Department, following consultation with various stakeholders.
The Student Grant Scheme and Student Support Regulations for the 2019/20 academic year, were published on 11 April 2019.
SUSI's online grant application system opened on 25 April 2019. Details of this scheme can be accessed via the SUSI website at https://susi.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Student-Grant-Scheme-2019.pdf.
The treatment of the Flood Damage Relief Measure operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, will be considered in the context of the review of the 2020 Scheme.
Students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund. This Fund assists students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances. Information on the fund is available through the Access Office in the third level institution attended. This fund is administered on a confidential, discretionary basis.
