Ryan: Universities have to manage resources better

Green Party minister Eamon Ryan has said Ireland's universities will have to manage their resources better following the Government's decision not to re-introduce third-level fees.

The commitment is a key part of the revised Programme for Government approved by the Green membership on Saturday.

Speaking in Dublin today, Mr Ryan admitted that universities would find it difficult to continue providing services, but said they would have to ensure more effectiveness in how they spend money.

Critics are already speculating that the Government will simply allow universities to increase their registration fees as an alternative to tuition fees.