Following representations from the Irish Refugee Council, NASC and others in relation to Stamp 4 visa holders, I have asked my officials to look at the issue raised today by the Deputy, including engagement with the Department of Justice and Equality. I have also asked them to look at the wider issues of alignment of SUSI and free fees supports with immigration permissions, in collaboration with other relevant Departments, and provide advice to me on whether any changes are required.
It has not been possible to make significant progress on this issue to date given the need for the relevant officials to focus on policy supports for people displaced as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, however it is still my intention that the policy considerations would be completed as expeditiously as possible.