USI sets up poll on higher education funding

The Union of Students in Ireland is asking students from across the country to vote in a nationwide online poll.

It is to decide the union's stance on student fees and whether or not the USI should continue its policy of campaigning for 'free fees'.

A special website www.usivote.com, has been set up.

It is asking students to rank their preferences from six funding models for higher education in a 'preferendum'.

The options are: a graduate tax, total exchequer funding (the union's current stance), upfront fees, a student contribution (the current model in place), a student loan scheme, or none of the above.

Voting opened at 1am this morning and will remain open for seven days.