This article is from page 18 of the 2011-09-27 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
IN A SIGN of the extent to which Clare students are relying on state support to attend college, over 1,000 applications for third level grants have so far been received by Clare VEC.
The figure, which is believed to be significantly above the number of applications received at the same point last year, was given to members at the monthly meeting of Clare Vocational Education Committee (VEC).
George O’Callaghan, Chief Executive Officer with Clare VEC, told last Thursday’s meeting that the number of applications was higher than 1000. Mr O’Callaghan appealed to applicants to complete and return all documents, saying a failure to do so leads to a delay in the application process. He also praised the efforts VEC staff working in the grants section.
In his monthly report to members, Mr O’Callaghan states, “Over 1,000 applications have been received so far. A large number have already been processed initially. Great credit and thanks is due to the staff in the grants section as well as staff from other sections that have assisted in the process.
He adds, “However as in previous years large numbers of applicants are not submitting full documentation with their applications which leads to delays in processing those applications.”
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Peter Considine (FF) commended the efforts of VEC staff. “We don’t always fully appreciate the work that goes in,” he added.
Mr O’Callaghan congratulated students in schools around the county and at the Adult Education Centre for their results in the Leaving Certificate.