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Third level fees
The continued drive to introduced fees for third level students highlights once again the way the Irish Political system does business. The opposite to death by a thousand cuts this method is intended to soften us the public into accepting unpalatable policy changes rather than giving it to us straight. Our lack of maturity clearly demands this type of treatment.
Just look at the various participants behaviour. The Minister has let it be known he believes it has to be done. His predecessor is regretful that we should even be taking about it. Gay Byrne seems to be in favour of it, as does Alan Dukes all on the basis that they could survive without it. The opposition parties are against it, but should it be introduced before they get might get elected to Government, it us unlikely that they will change it.
The opposers of the current system continue to use the failure to encourage people from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend third level as reason to drop the fees. Their mistaken belief is that the money saved will go into other levels of education.
The reality is that many young people, particularly from rural areas are at present spending up to €7k per year between accommodation and administration fees under present system. Cost of living and transport is considerably extra and depending on the personal situation can add another €10k to the bill.
The addition of fees in much more straightened times will in simple terms put third level beyond the ability of students and parents.
Of course the rich celebrities, well paid politicians can afford it, but not the average so called middle class family, who may in some cases be faced with supporting two or three students at the one time.
The students have made it clear what they think. Maybe parents should do the same.
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Originally Posted by Thac0man
