Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has welcomed the launch of a €50 million once-off COVID-19 payment scheme for third level students.

Government colleagues Minister Simon Harris and Minister of State Niall Collins confirmed details of the scheme with Minister Browne, which will assist County Wexford undergraduate and postgraduate students who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Minister Browne commented on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted students:

“In March, colleges closed their doors and moved everything online. The new academic year has also meant little or no on-campus time. Several students contacted me explaining how they needed some support to help offset the impact of moving from in-person lectures to remote lectures. Students needed to source laptops and desks to create a working space in their home. The COVID-19 payment scheme for students offers some assistance to students that needed to purchase equipment to assist with remote learning.“

Students who receive SUSI grant support will receive a €250 top up in their grant before Christmas. Meanwhile students who do not receive SUSI grant support can reduce their student contribution fees by €250 or they will receive a €250 credit note for their third level institution. In a small number of cases, alternative arrangements will be made for the payment of the monies to students. 

“Covid-19 has disrupted all our lives but for young people, it has resulted in many missed moments and many key life experiences. Today is a chance to recognise that. SUSI and third level institutions will be communicating directly with students over the coming weeks on this matter. This support package goes some way to helping students round off a difficult year. It is in addition to the €15 million for IT supports, the €10 million for access supports and €3million in support for wellbeing and mental health”,

Minister Browne concluded.