Minister considering distancing many Kildare students from third level education Daly

The news that Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe is considering reintroducing third level fees is a very serious threat to all students, particularly those from the most disadvantaged background according to Cllr Richard Daly of Fine Gael.

“Since the abolition of third level fees participation in third level education from the most disadvantaged socio-economic group has doubled showing that fees acted as a serious deterrent for the less well off and middle income groups.

At a time when we need to be developing a knowledge based economy we should be making every effort to expand participation in education at all levels. The penny pinching approach by the government seems to have no policy basis but is a knee jerk reaction to years of mismanagement. Education and Health were the areas which were not to be affected by the cutbacks so instead the minister is considering reintroducing fees to offset the cost of the sector. This is not education policy but the lack of it.” Said Cllr Daly

“The higher earners and better off are more likely to be in a position to offset the cost of third level against tax thus creating an even more inequitable society where education becomes a privilege and not a right and will continue to be dominated by the most wealthy in our society.

Despite any economic downturn, education needs to be prioritised and the Minister needs to formulate policy and a plan which will develop education in Ireland. The condition of school buildings, the lack of certainty on third level fees and the development of comprehensive special needs resources are among the issues which need to be addressed and not deferred.

Parents of prospective third level students need to voice their feelings on third level fees to their local TDs and particularly to the partners in government who have opposed this issue on the canvass trail two years ago.” he added

ENDS