Written answers

Tuesday, 21 June 2016

Department of Education and Skills

Student Grant Scheme

Photo of Billy KelleherBilly Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

158. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the outcome of meetings between his Department officials and representatives of the Wake Up SUSI campaign who are seeking grants for low-income students attending Quality and Qualifications Ireland degree courses in recognised private colleges from autumn 2016, as well as access to the Higher Education Authority hardship fund; and if he has taken any decision on their request that will ensure they will be able to continue their studies. [16703/16]

Photo of Richard BrutonRichard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Officials in my Department met with representatives from the 'Wake up SUSI' campaign on 25th. May. A proposal in relation to extending student supports to students in certain private colleges was subsequently submitted to my Department on 8th. June. This proposal is currently being considered by officials in my Department, in the context of overall budgetary constraints.

An Expert Group chaired by Peter Cassells was established to examine funding arrangements for higher education and to present options for developing a sustainable long term funding strategy for the sector. The Expert Group has completed its work and its report will allow for a real and meaningful discussion on the funding requirements of the sector and how those requirements should be met. As signalled in the Programme for Government, it is my intention to publish the report shortly and to refer it to the cross-party Oireachtas Committee for consultation as part of the process for formulating a plan for the future of this sector. This will ensure that all views can be heard and considered on the most appropriate way forward for the Irish higher education system.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.