Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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I thank the deputations for their presentations. We are all in agreement that we cannot continue with things as they are. Under something changes, the quality of education in Ireland - something we have always been proud of - will plummet.

I have concerns similar to those raised by other members in respect of access. I taught in a DEIS school for 16 years and I have seen the joy when the first child in a family declares intent to go to third level. I have concerns that this move would diminish that incentive and that the loan would frighten the child, especially when they turn to parents who do not fit the typical support model to which the rest of us may be accustomed. They may not get the necessary support at home. Those are my thoughts on that point.

I am keen to hear from all the deputations on the potential impact of loans on emigration. The statistics show that 20% of graduates emigrate and 10% emigrate on a permanent basis. If it is the case that a person who stays abroad would not have to pay back the loans - it appears that it might be – will this lead to a complete brain drain? Will our most wonderful and brilliant graduates stay abroad rather than repay? One impact is that the loans would not be paid back and we would suffer the loss of wonderful graduates. That needs to be explored.

How does Dr. Day see Brexit impacting on our universities and institutes of technology?

My final question is a general question for all three deputations. I am curious about the drop-out rates, including the drop-out rates from universities to institutes of technology and from institutes of technology to post leaving certificate courses. When students discover a lack of suitability and change around there is a loss of fees. Is there a broader issue? Do we need to explore something like the dual system in Germany? Would that help to address it? Is that something this country should explore?