Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

The Minister came to the Chamber this afternoon with big folders and is surrounded by his colleagues, including the Minister for higher education, Deputy Lawless, but could not answer a straightforward question. It is not acceptable, smart or clever to come to the Chamber and refuse to answer a very straightforward question that students and their families need clarity on. Will their fees be set at €2,000 or €3,000? The Minister, Deputy Lawless, started this debate. He volunteered the information that fees would increase. I again ask the Minister to have the decency to be clear with students and their families and state the position clearly when he takes to his feet. If he cannot, the Minister, Deputy Lawless, should avail of the opportunity to make it clear whether students and their families will pay €2,000 or €,3000. It is a very straightforward question. Surely to God one of you can answer it.

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