Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, wish to comment on the meeting this morning between Oireachtas Members and members of VECs throughout the country, especially with regard to student grants from SUSI. At one time the third level grant applications process was overseen by the VECs and local authorities. In the months of the year when the pressure was on and applications had to be processed, staff were redeployed from other administrative roles to work on the third level grant applications process. When the body concerned is an island, as is the case with SUSI, this is simply not possible. I am aware of one situation in Cork in which a student from Clare has been informed that she must move out because she is unable to pay the second quarter moneys due for her accommodation simply because she does not have her grant. I appeal to the Minister to put the word out to all third level colleges to be lenient and understanding with young people who have not received their grants when it comes to on-campus accommodation and any associated payments.

I did not see the interview last night with Mr. Halappanavar but I understand it was rather emotional. It is regrettable that in Ireland in 2012 a man who lost his wife less than one month ago has to go on television to appeal for what he perceives to be justice. Something has happened that is totally unacceptable, regrettable and undignified, yet the gentleman has shown great dignity. We need to examine ourselves as a society, a civilisation and a republic and we must ask ourselves whether this is acceptable. In my humble opinion, it is not acceptable. I call on all parties involved in this case to show sensitivity to a man who has lost his wife, because that is the reality. We can all stand up here and talk about this case in an academic sense, but the bottom line is that this is a grieving man and I have great respect and admiration for the dignity he has shown.