Sinead Ryan

1 week ago | independent.ie | Sinead Ryan

With the Leaving Cert just around the corner, it’s time to consider college grantsSusi, the State grant system for third-level, is open to everyone, easy to access and well worth applying forYou as the student must make the application, it’s not a difficult process and it’s still not too late to applyYou’re almost there. You’ve put in the hard yards, even in the blistering May sun and now all you have to do is transcribe the fruits of your labour.

2 weeks ago | independent.ie | Sinead Ryan

Winter-proof your home now – and reap the benefits and savings laterFrom insulating your attic and hot-water tank to getting your boiler serviced, there are plenty of jobs you can get done this time of the yearInsulating your home should be a priority. Photo: GettyWith the glorious weather possibly behind us – for now at least – we’re all hoping it will make a reappearance for a long, hot summer.

2 weeks ago | independent.ie | Sinead Ryan

Home economics: Will I be eligible for Fair Deal scheme, and do you need to apply early? Our expert answers your property finance questionsYou can only apply for the Fair Deal scheme when you need it, but you can research your options early. Photo: GettyI’m a 73-year-old male and I live with my wife in our family bungalow, which we own outright with no mortgage, valued at around €350,000.

2 weeks ago | independent.ie | Sinead Ryan

Home economics: What are the rules of succession for writing a will – are siblings and step-siblings treated differently? Our expert answers your property finance questionsWhoever you decided to remember in your will, the most important thing is creating one and making your wishes clear. Photo: GettyI am a single woman with no spouse and no will (currently). I have both siblings and step-siblings – some who have offspring and some who don’t. My elderly parents are both still alive.

2 weeks ago | independent.ie | Sinead Ryan

Sinéad Ryan: School absenteeism is ‘hugely alarming’ – someone should tell the thousands of teachers on career breakIsn’t it faintly ridiculous that we permit career breaks that start after an arduous 12 months on the job? Education Minister Helen McEntee. Photo: Getty“Hugely alarming” figures showing a high rate of school absenteeism will prompt Education Minister Helen McEntee – for they are her words – to take “action”. Whatever that may mean. It’s true that there’s a problem.