Business group IBEC has welcomed news that the Government is considering re-introducing fees for third-level education.
Earlier, the Minister for Education, Batt O'Keeffe, confirmed that the re-introduction of third level fees was one option being considered as part of a review of how the university sector is funded, though the Government says charges would be aimed at better-off families.
The employers' body said the current system was 'unsustainable' and inequitable as it provided subsidies to students whose families could afford to pay tuition fees.
Head of education and social policy Tony Donohoe said investment in higher education was essential to support the development of an economy based on learning and innovation. He said it would be impossible to develop a 'globally competitive' third-level system with state funding alone.
But Mr Donohoe warned that it tuition fees were brought back, this must not be offset by reductions in state funding. He said there were a number of approaches - such as subsidised loans and graduate contribution schemes - which could be considered.
