John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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79. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he is satisfied that Student Universal Support Ireland will fulfil its obligations on time this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42245/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I understand from the City of Dublin Education and Training Board that in preparation for the 2013/2014 academic year, the grants administration process has undergone significant development to enhance its effectiveness and deal with the difficulties experienced last year. Student Universal Support Ireland has implemented a number of initiatives recommended by an independent review of the process. These include direct information sharing with Government bodies and other agencies including the Revenue Commissioners, the Department of Social Protection and the CAO.

I understand that these links have significantly reduced the number of documents required from students in processing grant applications and that SUSI is now some months ahead of its processing position at this time last year. The grant renewals process has also been very successful to date. I am assured by CDETB that SUSI is continuing to develop and improve its services and will deliver a much-improved service to students in 2013.