Written answers

Thursday, 28 May 2009

Department of Education and Science

Higher Education Grants

3:00 pm

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 191: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if each vocational education committee applies different guidelines for stamp four students who have permission to work and study here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21984/09]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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It is the candidate's nationality or his/her immigration status in the State that determines whether or not he/she meets the nationality requirement outlined in the student grant schemes. Possession of a 'stamp 4' does not automatically satisfy the nationality requirement of the grant schemes. My Department understands a 'stamp 4' can be awarded to categories of applicants other than those specified in my Department's grant schemes.

The decision on eligibility for a maintenance grant is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC as appropriate. It is for each VEC/local authority to determine whether the nationality/immigration status of the candidate meets the nationality requirements in the Scheme.

In order ensure consistency of assessment practice, guidance on the provisions of the schemes is provided to the awarding authorities at the annual briefing day on the administration of the grant schemes.

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