Review of university funding may lead to rise in student fees

A major review of how Ireland’s colleges and universities are funded has been launched due to concerns over whether the already stretched system can cope with an expected surge in future demand.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn revealed the move — which could potentially lead to student fee rises, a greater dependency on loans, or more international student places — at the publication of the first performance report into the higher education system.

Speaking at the launch yesterday, Mr Quinn said that despite financial and staffing issues, the higher education sector is still providing a quality service.