University fees should be introduced for families that can afford to pay.

This is the opinion of Dr Hugh Brady, president of University College Dublin, who said many low-earning taxpayers are subsidising the education of wealthy people who can fund their own courses.

He used his own situation as an example and pointed out that he could afford to pay fees when his three children attend university. However, all they will be faced with is a modest student services charge.

"Universities generate significant fee income from postgraduate and international students. However, state-imposed restrictions on staff recruitment and remuneration limit our ability to expand this activity," Dr Brady commented.

He added that under-funding universities could threaten the quality of education that students receive.

It was revealed in March that a record number of people have submitted CAO applications this year, with demand for college places rising due to the economic downturn.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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