Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As it is a totally new system, it is understandable that there have been some difficulties. I know SUSI is trying to deal with them as expeditiously as possible. I accept that the number of incorrect application forms - 17,500 - seems to be quite large. It is surprising that so many people failed to give all the information or fill the forms in correctly. I understand the Union of Students in Ireland is working with students to encourage them to supply all the documentation. A helpdesk and an inquiry line are available to assist students who might be having difficulty understanding what they need to submit. I am not aware that responsibility for the validation stage has been passed to an outside body. I can get that information for the Deputy. He suggested that a tracking system similar to that used for passport applications should be used. I can pass that suggestion on to the Minister. The move from 66 bodies to a single body for these purposes is a big undertaking. Like other Deputies, I know from my experience that there were delays in the old system when one had to deal with one's local council or VEC. It is a big undertaking. Every effort is being made. SUSI has acknowledged that some appeals have gone beyond 30 days even though that should not happen. I made that point in my opening statement as well. SUSI is doing everything it can to bring it down to a minimum. We all understand it is difficult for students and families to await the making of a decision or the payment of a grant. Every effort is being made to limit the waiting times.

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