Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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70. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a course (details supplied) has been deemed ineligible for the student grant in view of the fact that it is a full time course of two years in a duration in a leading university, that leads to a recognised FETAC Level 7 qualification; the reason Student Universal Support Ireland has stated that this course does not lead to a major award; if his attention has been drawn to the hardship, distress and upset caused to students on this course as a result of this decision; if he will review this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3201/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The student grants awarding body, SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) confirmed on Monday 20th January 2014 that students attending the course referred to by the Deputy are approved for funding.

The decision follows a review carried out, as part of on-going audits of student grants, on a valid question which arose over the eligibility of the specified course. On looking into the matter, my Department clarified the position in respect of this course and grants are approved for students participating on the course in 2013/14.