Report strengthens third-level fees case

THE case for reintroducing third-level fees is strengthened by the latest OECD report on global education funding but the economic think-tank has also warned against up-front charges for students.

In its annual Education at a Glance report, the organisation pointed out that Finland and Sweden are the only other two developed countries where tuition fees are not charged.

The report of a higher education strategy review being considered by the Cabinet this month pushes for a student loan scheme under which graduates must repay the cost of their degrees when they start working, although the Government insists fees will not be brought back during its remaining term.