Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I, too, wish to raise an issue related to education. Members are currently receiving representations in regard to the SUSI grants system. Over the past two years, there have been a number of changes to that system.If students are working during the summer or part time at Christmas, that is taken into account with the parents' PRSI, whether it is the mother or the father. In many cases, it brings students over a threshold for grants, which is a major issue. We have the best of young people seeking to go to third level education but the SUSI grant system is not working. I am looking for the Minister to be brought in to speak on this. The PAYE worker and those who have their stamps are not getting a grant because a young family member, whether he or she is a working student, can bring them over the limit.

I read today that Ireland is the second most expensive country in Europe for consumer goods and services. With the exception of electronics, Ireland was above the European Union average for all the price categories. The State ranked most expensive for alcohol and tobacco, with an average price at 175% of the EU average. Ireland was also the third highest priced country for personal transport equipment, including cars, motorbikes and bicycles, at 111% of the EU average. The survey, based on data from 2016, found that Ireland is fourth highest for restaurants and hotels, and fifth highest for food and non-alcoholic drinks, both at 120% of the EU average. We all know how important this is for tourism in Ireland. We love Ireland and we want to promote it but we must ensure we are in line with average prices. This is another crucial matter that should be brought to a Minister.