Free education 'core value in modern society'

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has described free access to education a core value in any modern and progressive society.

Mr Kenny was speaking at the launch his party's campaign against the Government's apparent plans to reintroduce fees.

He said that if the Fianna Fail-Progressive Democrats coalition was serious about improving access to education for the disadvantaged, it would not have increased college registration fees by 69% last year.

He said this indirect tax affected all students, regardless of the wealth of their parents.

Fine Gael said it plans to take its campaign against college fees to campuses around the country next week.