Still no college funding model in upcoming budget

Education Minister Richard Bruton will be unable, in next week’s budget, to deliver any long-term outline of a third-level funding model.

Despite his previous plans to have a political agreement on whether to significantly increase taxpayer investment or introduce an income-contingent student loans scheme, neither is now expected to be announced.

A year ago, Mr Bruton’s spokesperson said a cross-party recommendation on long-term funding solutions would be expected in time for him to bring a plan to the Cabinet in time for Budget 2018.