Options 'on the table' to change student capitation grant, cutting annual college fees in budget

Elsewhere, government sources have indicated that, while there may be no imminent public transport fare hikes, it is not off the table into the future

While it is understood higher education minister James Lawless would like to see fees permanently cut by €1,000, sources have indicated it is more likely to be in the region of a €500 cut.

More third-level students could get money off their annual college fees in next week’s budget, as consideration is given to expanding access to grants and hiking payments.

Government sources have indicated options are on the table to change the student contribution grant, which helps students towards paying off their annual college fees.