FG proposes new system of third-level funding

18/03/2009 - 13:11:17
Fine Gael is proposing a new system of third-level funding that would see students paying 30% of the cost of their courses once they graduate and gain employment.

The party says it would abolish third-level registration fees as part of the new funding model, which it says could raise €500m per year for colleges and universities.

Fine Gael says it opposes third-level fees, but believes it is fair to require graduates to make additional PRSI payments for a period of years until they have paid 30% of the cost of their course.

It says the money raised would be distributed to colleges and universities "based on their performance to deliver change under certain criteria".