50% increase in numbers seeking third-level grants

Westmeath County Council is reporting a 50% increase in number of people seeking third-level grants this year as the start of the college term fast approaches. A spokesperson for the local authority said as of Monday last the official deadline for applications, there has been 300 in total lodged with the local authority, a "major increase" on the previous year, reflecting the changed economic situation which has led the numbers of people to look for help to meet the costs of college in the Lake County. However, due to the backlog with the Revenue Commissioners in terms of assessment, the council said it will be accepting late applications, which given the level of inquiries to date, it believes may take the total up to 400. Were that to materialise it would actually equate to a 100% increase on the 200 received in 2008, the spokesperson commented. It's understood payment of the grant will not commence for successful applicants until mid-October. President of AIT Students Union Gary Cassin commented that the rising numbers seeking the third-level maintenance grant this year reflects the extent of job losses or people put on a three-day week in the last twelve months. "People are telling us that if they don't get the grant they are not going to be able to afford to go to college," he said. " The full grant is roughly €80 a week, which covers your rent and around two days food," he pointed out, adding those unsuccessful may be forced to drop out altogether. He also expressed concern that the current backlog in applications may mean a delay in payment for those lucky enough to be approved for maintenance grant, something that may mean they wouldn't be able to afford to relocate to Athlone and start their course till then. "If students are waiting for the payment how are they going to cope in the short term? It could mean people can't start the course or they could have to defer until next year." Mr Cassin added that the Students Union has also been receiving a lot of inquiries in relation to the Student Hardship Fund, the budget for which has also been cut this year and is really only available for those in "extreme circumstances". "It is not a grant it is a help for those below the poverty line to buy say food. It is only for small amounts," he concluded.