Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
1168. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will reconsider and reintroduce the 33% reduction on contributory fees for apprentices which was reduced to 17% in the recent budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71831/25]
View answerI am conscious of financial challenges facing learners and the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address costs as a barrier to attending tertiary education. It is a priority for me to explore the most effective and sustainable ways to support learners in managing these costs.
As part of Budget 2026, I announced a permanent reduction in the Student Contribution charge. This flat rate reduction has reduced the rate from €3,000 to €2,500 for undergraduate students eligible for the free fees initiative and, applied on a pro rata basis, has lowered the student contribution by 17% for apprentices attending Higher Education. This will benefit approximately 14,000 apprentices in the 2025/26 academic year.
As part of Budget 2026, it was important for me to make permanent, sustainable interventions which would give families and learners certainty. With this permanent measure I have done that. This is the first time the student contribution has been permanently reduced.
Looking ahead to future Budget decisions, I will continue to consider all options available to me to reduce the cost of education for apprentices, students and their families.
