James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy makes an interesting point. The income thresholds have increased this year to €120,000 so Members of the Oireachtas would qualify for SUSI support, which I think may be a first. It is at a significant level and it has certainly gone beyond those who may be at risk of poverty or are on lower incomes. They rightly receive more support but up to €120,000, families are now in receipt of SUSI supports, which is very progressive and is the highest it has ever been.

Regarding regional balance, which I think the Deputy alluded to in his question on students who may be attending other institutions and may incur greater costs, one of the things I am exploring in this budget, and I have set aside some money for a pilot, is the cost of placements. This might include a Gaeltacht placement, for example, on some courses or placements in healthcare institutions, as well as equipment purchases if a student has to purchase laboratory equipment, a uniform or other items. I have commissioned a pilot and have committed moneys to it in the current year to see what exactly could be helped in that regard, what courses need what supports on a custom basis and how we can do something that is fair and uniform. We can then develop that further in subsequent budgets once we have teased that out.

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