Teachers concerned about US 'for-profit' education sector's interest in EU market

The Irish Federation of University Teachers has expressed concern about the future of third level education here.

The group is meeting in Dublin this morning to discuss a new trade agreement being negotiated between the EU and the United States.

The "for-profit" education sector in the US is seeking access to the European and Irish market.

The IFTU is concerned that this may have a serious impact on the quality of education in Ireland.

A two-year investigation into "for-profit colleges" in the States found there were substandard academic offerings, high tuition fees and a 64% drop out rate.

Special advisor with Education International Dr David Robinson said: "If the European Union is not prudent enough, it could expose the education sector to these commercial (entities)."