The Programme for Government (PfG) addresses the cost of college in a balanced way by combining both universal and targeted measures. The PFG commits to incrementally reducing student contribution fees as well as increasing SUSI grants, providing additional supports for specific cohorts, as well as providing more pathways into and through higher education. The PFG explicitly states that this must be done in a financially sustainable manner.
The Programme for Government contains several commitments which are intended to reduce the financial burden on students and families. One of these commitments is to reduce the Student Contribution Fee over the lifetime of the Government in a financially sustainable manner.
In my first budget as Minister for Higher Education, I have delivered on this commitment. I have reduced the student contribution by €500, and I have done so in a manner that is financially sustainable. This flat rate reduction has reduced the student contribution fee from €3,000 to €2,500; the first permanent reduction since the Free Fees Initiative was introduced in 1995.
Previous temporary measures, whilst providing welcome relief for students and their families, remained uncertain from year to year. By implementing a permanent reduction, I have provided certainty for students on the student contribution for those who pay it. In this regard, it is important to also note that tens of thousands of students have their student contribution paid in full or part by SUSI, with over 65,000 students receiving supports last year.
In looking at future options to improve the student support framework, I must have regard to the Government’s overall expenditure management and budgetary policy. Whilst the recent Government decision to levy Departments to cover expenditure pressures in the Department of Education may limit the options available to me in this year’s budget, it won't diminish my resolve to deliver for students and their families.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in Budget 2027 or subsequent budgets, I can assure the Deputy that options to reduce the cost of education for students and their families, will remain a primary objective for me.
