Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

——within the resources available. We are very conscious of the pressures on students.

The efforts of the VECs and local authorities have to be acknowledged in these challenging circumstances. Apart from the pressures associated with the volume of applications, a significant number of outstanding grant applications have not been processed in full because they are incomplete. I remind students and their parents to return all necessary supporting documentation as early as possible to help the awarding bodies make prompt decisions on entitlement.

The Higher Education Authority has asked institutions to be flexible in respect of the payment of the student services charge for those still awaiting a decision on their grant application. We are very conscious of the situation for students. I am a public representative and people have been in touch with my office and clinic in this regard. I must acknowledge the pressure under which the staff in the VECs and local authorities as well as students are operating.

See this speech in context