It includes increases of up to €342 in maintenance grants.

Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith revealed that he was there in London on the day that the Declaration was agreed upon, 30 years ago.

Deputy Smith asked the Taoiseach directly to pay 85% of the money due to farmers now.

Deputy Brendan Smith raised the matter in the Dáil this week.

The funding announcement was made by Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne.

Deputy Smith says families here, regardless of their children's study location, have similar cost-of-living pressures.

Deputy Smith has encouraged people from across Cavan and Monaghan to apply.

Deputy Smith said the long wait times were causing "real difficulties" for local people.