Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
558. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will permanently reduce student fees by €1,500 and outline a plan to abolish fees over the next few years, in light of Ireland having the highest undergraduate fees in the EU, as requested by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37919/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am conscious of the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address cost as a barrier to attending higher education.
I have recently published an options paper (www.gov.ie/en/publication/db3c6-funding-the-future-an-annual-options-paper-on-the-cost-of-higher-education-2024/) which sets out the various possible measures to reduce the cost of attending higher education. I will have regard to these options when making proposals regarding student supports in the context of the budget discussions.
As the Deputy will appreciate, at this time it is not possible to provide an indication of any measures that may be introduced in Budget 2025.
