Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 458: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when she expects a higher education grant application for a person (details supplied) in County Meath will be processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32092/07]

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 459: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when she expects a higher education grant application for a person (details supplied) in County Meath will be processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32093/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 458 and 459 together.

The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is required.

If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.

Alternatively, as already indicated, the local authority or VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department.