Ahern takes plunge and joins fight for fair education system

THE Taoiseach may not have directly advocated a return of third level fees but he has certainly upped the ante in the debate by firmly addressing the topic at the weekend.

Backing Education Minister Noel Dempsey's review of third level funding in front of the youthful audience at the Ógra Fianna Fáil conference, Mr Ahern said it was time to target support for third level education at those most in need.

He said: "If we want to break cycles of disadvantage and open up opportunity for all, we have to broaden participation in universities and institutes.