Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

This is where I disagree fundamentally with Deputy Hayes. The State is currently investing €2 billion in the third level sector, an increase of 33.3% over the last four years. The Exchequer is paying some €350 million by way of fees to the third level sector. This is a fundamental policy issue which will have to be decided on by the Government. It is for this reason that I have separated this issue from those being dealt with by the strategy group. The Government must ultimately give direction according to its conclusions.

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