Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In the first instance, I thank the staff of SUSI - and, indeed, Geraldine in my office - who do tremendous work in assisting families. We discussed this matter at a meeting with the Minister regarding the South East Technological University in the audiovisual room last October. At that time, he stated that students were allowed to earn only €2,000 during a summer. He indicated he would increase that limit, and he did so. I acknowledge that and thank him for it. The figure was increased from €4,500 to €6,552, which was very welcome and deeply necessary. He did what he said he was going to do, so I acknowledge that and thank him for it.

I know very well some of the towns in the Minister's county, Wicklow. The hospitality industry there employs students and it works both ways. The industry needs students and the students need the work. Allowing them to get a few extra bob, pocket money or whatever takes some of the pressure off families, who are hard pressed at the moment. I am glad the Minister has asked his officials to look at this.

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