Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jun 1992

Vol. 421 No. 6

Written Answers. - University Fees.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

23 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to reports that the colleges of the National University of Ireland and Trinity College plan increases in fees next year which will push average costs up by around £100; if he intends to take any action on this proposal, especially in view of the commitments given in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress regarding access to education for lower income groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

The setting of the fees for individual facilities in university colleges is a matter in each case for the relevant governing body.

With a view to harmonising overall fee levels between universities my Department recently set an upper limit to the percentage of college income which may be obtained by way of undergraduate fee income.

Fee levels vary considerably between colleges and the limit is based on the current average percentage of income from fees for the university sector as a whole.

The Deputy may be assured that students from lower income families who obtain university places will not suffer under any fee increases. Their position will be safeguarded through the payment of their fees under the third-level student support schemes.

I am also currently reviewing the income eligibility limits and income assessment criteria for student support grants.