All third-level students should get State loans, says economist

THIRD-LEVEL students should be funded by a State loan system which would allow anybody attend college regardless of their background, according to a leading economist.

Trutz Haase, an independent social and economic consultant, said educational disadvantage could be eradicated with a scheme like ones operating in other European countries.

A decision on whether to re-introduce college fees for some or all students is expected to be made by Education Minister Noel Dempsey before the end of the year.