Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Patrick O’Donovan, has reminded Leaving Certificate students that the closing date for grant applications to SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) is August 1st. Mr. O’Donovan urged those who are hoping to attend third level this autumn, who would like to apply for grant support, to get their applications in before the approaching closing date.

Mr. O’Donovan acknowledged that there have been major problems in the administration of SUSI for students already attending third level, and he raised the issues faced by County Limerick students recently at a meeting with the Minister for Education, Ruairi Quinn.

The Minister acknowledged that students had experienced unacceptable problems with the scheme and assured that the Government and the City of Dublin VEC, who administer it, are trying to solve the remaining problems in the scheme.

Patrick O’Donovan said that for now the important date is 1st August and encouraged students to get their applications together as soon as possible, if they haven’t already done so.