MTU and UCC are set to receive an additional funding for the Student Assistance Fund (SAF) to help students who might otherwise be unable to continue their studies due to financial circumstances Cork North-West Fine Gael General Election Candidate Cllr. John Paul O’Shea
The additional total of almost €10m allocation was announced by Fine Gael Higher Education Minister Patrick O’Donovan and will be managed by the Higher Education Authority on behalf of the Department.
Cllr. O’Shea said: “I am pleased that this funding will be available to students from Cork who might need support in meeting day-to-day costs associated with being in higher education.
“The additional funding was provided for in Budget 2025 as part of the cost-of-living package.
“€682,438 is being provided to UCC and €499,056 to MTU, which will be much welcomed for Cork students, with the money expected to be distributed to higher education institutes by the end of November.
“The funding can help with the likes of books and class materials, rent and utility bills, food and travel costs, and other similar costs.
“Funding is administrated on a confidential, discretionary basis and assists students in a sensitive manner.
“There is also funding of €1 million nationally for childcare costs for students with children. This will be very welcome for these students and will support them to continue their studies.
“Students in Cork who are on a full or part time courses in approved colleges can apply for the funding and can do so directly through the college.
“Fine Gael is committed to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to pursue their education and this significant funding is further evidence of this.
“This is just one of a number of important measures secured by my colleague Minister Patrick O’Donovan in Budget 2025 that will benefit Cork students and their families.
“Student contribution fees have been slashed by €1000, an increased renter’s tax credit, widened SUSI grant thresholds, student accommodation initiatives, and public transport discounts will ease the pressure on families paying for college.
“These initiatives help ensure students are supported and equipped for success throughout their education journey,” Cllr O’Shea concluded.
