Jim D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I could not believe the rate was so high. Sligo is next and then Waterford, county and city. Retention rates in Border counties, including that in which I live, Louth, are generally lower than the national average but I am pleased by the fact that the report shows them to be increasing all the time.

As Senator Bacik said, we must look at the good aspects of education when debating it. It is traumatic for students to be waiting for their grants to be paid. I know from experience that some of them will be able to survive until Christmas but it is tough on them if grants are delayed until after Christmas. The new system must be given a chance. However, I ask that SUSI pulls out all the stops in order to support students.