No to third-level fees

Posted on September 15, 2009 at 04:54 PM

No to Fees
Cllr Niamh Bhreathnach, and former Minister for Education with Deputy Ruairi Quinn, Labour Spokesperson on Education at the USI No to Fees protest.

Investment in 3rd Level education is the way forward to building a knowledge based economy. Education has a cost; for students parents and the taxpayer. Fees are a barrier to entry, particularly for middle and low income groups. We cannot, as a society allow such a barrier block entry to some of our brightest and best students. As successful graduates, they will create new jobs and pay higher income taxes, thereby repaying society's investment in them and their future.

Last week Eamon Gilmore TD, the Leader of the Labour Party, and I met with representatives of the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). We reiterated our determination to oppose the reintroduction of third level fees by the current Fianna Fail -Green Party government and to work with our colleagues in USI.

The Labour Party is completely opposed to putting a financial block on access to higher education. Education isn't free - it already costs a lot of money. Students have to pay for registration fees, books, accommodation, travel and other expenses. Adding fees on top of this will make it even harder for students to further their education and reach their full potential.

by Deputy Ruairi Quinn, Spokesperson on Education, posting after attending the USI No to Fees demonstration

Tagged with Education