STAGGERED INCREASES in the €2,000 student contribution fee are the most likely outcome of Cabinet discussions on funding third-level education.
Sources say Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn has “all but ruled out” the return of fees averaging over €5,000 per year. Other options, including student loans and a graduate tax, are also less likely because of the long delay in generating new revenue for colleges.
Proposals under discussion include a further €500 increase in the student contribution charge. It is thought Mr Quinn could also signal a series of further increases for 2013 and subsequent years. Last September the charge was increased from €1,500 to €2,000. The proposed further increase in the charge would be imposed from September 2012. Sources say this increase could be “about €500 or less”.
Mr Quinn is under intense pressure from Labour Party backbenchers and from grassroots members over the issue. Many party members see “free” access to higher education as a core Labour Party principle.
The Minister is also under pressure from students and their families after his pre-election promise that there would be no increase.
Mr Quinn was the focus of much anger during yesterday’s Dublin protest which drew up to 20,000 students. USI president Gary Redmond accused Mr Quinn of reneging on the clear, unambiguous commitment he made before the election.
Any plans to raise funds solely through increases to the contribution charge are certain to draw criticism from university presidents. Last week UCC president Dr Michael Murphy said fees of at least €4,500-€5,000 were necessary to preserve the quality of the higher education system.
Last September’s €500 increase in the student contribution charge generated only about €55 million for colleges. Earlier this year, the Hunt report said the sector required funding to help cope with a projected 30 per cent increase in admissions over the next 10 years.