Donna McGettigan (Clare, Sinn Fein)

We all want to work together for fairness, justice and equality in education and one of things we can do to help us is the reform of the SUSI grant. For too long, SUSI has been a barrier rather than a bridge for many of our young people. This is supposed to be a scheme which enables access to education but instead for many it is yet another wall that blocks their future.

Let us speak plainly. The age of 23 - that so-called threshold for being classed as an independent student - is actually a barrier for some. Looking at one family's situation - this family contacted both the Minister and I - they feel that middle-wage earners are being punished because of this. They said when their means test for SUSI was being completed, it did not take into consideration tax, PRSI or USC charges because their child is independent but they cannot prove it so their income is taken into consideration. They have received a minimal amount from SUSI and must now pay €10,000 in rent, student fees, food and travel. This really needs to be looked at.

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