Protest against Clare council over grant letters

A protest against Clare County Council's decision to write to third level grant applicants seeking proof that their family has paid the household charge, takes place in Ennis this afternoon.

On Wednesday, the Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn said he would seek legal advice on whether or not county councils can ask for proof of payment of the charge - before processing the applications.

However, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny told the Dáil that Clare County Council could not legally withhold grants from third level students.