Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
165. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science whether reporting (details supplied) that a budget overrun in another Department will have to be recouped through an increase in student fees is accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34607/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of Budget 2026, I announced a permanent €500 reduction in the student contribution fee. This reduced the student contribution rate from €3,000 to €2,500 for Free Fees Initiative eligible students not availing of student contribution supports through SUSI.
Apprentices attending Higher Education have also benefited from a pro-rata reduction in their student contribution charge.
These are permanent reductions that have been fully implemented with effect from the current academic year. While they come at a signification cost of over €50m, they are nevertheless important measures that will reduce the cost of education for students and their families.
The recent Government decision to levy departments to cover expenditure pressures in other Departments may limit the options for new measures, involving policy initiatives or supports, in Budget 2027. Notwithstanding this, I will again pursue options that are equitable, funded, fair, and that build upon the permanent improvements that were made for the 2025/26 academic year. I will continue to engage with students and stakeholders to identify what are the key measures that can be implemented to reduce the cost of education, building on the discussions I had with students at the recent cost of education event in Portlaoise.
I will also engage with my Cabinet colleagues, to ensure that I have the necessary support to implement further improvements to the student support framework.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
