Budget negotiations expose a rift between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael over welfare spending, particularly concerning college fees. Minister James Lawless advocates for permanent reductions in college fees by several hundred euros to alleviate financial burdens on students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Previous budget measures reduced fees by €1,000 temporarily, but upcoming negotiations aim for sustainable financial support. Lawless expresses commitment to securing favorable outcomes for students and critiques the temporary nature of past support schemes, emphasizing the need for consistent assistance for families facing financial uncertainty.
"I am going into the budget negotiations this autumn seeking the very best possible outcome for students and their families, by seeking discounts to the student contribution fee."
"Families have faced uncertainty in recent years as support schemes were, by design, temporary and not guaranteed year-on-year."
Collection
[
|
...
]