Rónán Mullen (Independent)

When I was in charge of student services in the then Dundalk Regional Technical College we had a hardship fund from which chaplains would disburse moneys to students who were hard up. We now find out that some students are still waiting to find out, at this late stage of the year with Christmas examinations approaching, whether they will receive a higher education grant. Some students are dropping out of college owing to financial hardship. This is an absolute disgrace.

On the subject of hardship funds, the allocation of €10 million to people affected by flooding, when more than 100 houses have been damaged and more than 12 businesses compromised in Ballinasloe alone, appears to be a hardship fund that will do no more than help people in the short term. It is nothing like the compensation package that is needed. I heard this morning that the European Commission would provide €23 million if we could show that the damage amounts to €1 billion. A serious challenge is facing us and I hope the Government is aware of this and will ratchet up the amount of money it will provide to help people in enormous distress.