Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 March 2011
37 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he plans to begin a review of third level funding as promised in the programme for government; will the review examine the reintroduction of third level fees; will a graduate tax be considered in that review and will he rule out the introduction of a graduate tax or increased third level fees during the lifetime of this Government. [5641/11]
View answerThe Programme for Government provides a commitment to undertake a full review of third level funding with a view to introducing a funding system that will provide third level institutions with reliable funding but does not impact on access for students.
This review will be advanced as part of the wider implementation plan for the higher education strategy and links to recommendations made in the Hunt report in relation to the role of the HEA in advising on the sustainability of the system, developing the higher education funding model and supporting institutions in widening their funding base. I will be considering the issues involved including an increased contribution by students as referred to by the Deputy as part of my wider consideration of the implementation plan.
