Poll shows majority in support of free third-level education

A majority of Irish people think third-level education should remain free, according to a new poll.

Some 77% of those quesstioned in a new Red C Poll believe the State should continue to provide free tuition to third-level students.

The figure rises to 90% of people between the ages of 18 and 24.

The poll - which was commissioned by the UCD Students' Union - also found that third-level education is second only to job creation for Irish economic recovery.

The poll comes amid speculation that an increase in registration fees for third-level education may be among the measurs proposed in December's Budget.