Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

One thing we definitely can agree on is the need to make education as accessible as possible. We know many people do not realise what is available to them and we must ensure they are made aware. This is really about the type of vision the Minister has for third level education. I think he probably does have such a vision. It was a disappointment that the reduction in the charge is not a permanent measure, with a view to abolishing the charge. Sometimes, these decisions are made by the Ministers for Finance and for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform. People knew this issue would continue to put pressure on families. There is concern about whether they will be able to afford third level education. It is not just the student contribution charge; it is also the impact of the accommodation crisis and the difficulty of finding somewhere to live. The issue is a lot broader than the student charge. It is about what kind of vision we have for third level education, which should be that it is free.

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