Proposed fee hike 'a hammer blow to Mayo’s third-level students'

An elected member of Mayo County Council has condemned the potential increase of €1,000 in third-level fees, warning that it will have a devastating impact on students and families across Mayo.

“This is a hammer blow for students already struggling with the cost of living crisis,” said Independent Councillor Harry Barrett.

“We were promised reductions in fees, not increases. Families in Mayo, who already face high accommodation costs and travel expenses to Dublin, Galway, and other university towns, will be hit the hardest. This U-turn is disgraceful.

"For the past three years, the annual student contribution fee had been reduced from €3,000 to €2,000.

"The news that this reduction may now be reversed has left students feeling betrayed.

“Young people have based their plans on government promises. Now, they feel like the rug is being pulled from under them.

"Students’ unions across Ireland have voiced outrage, highlighting how many students are already skipping meals and struggling to afford basic necessities.

“It’s bad enough that students are forced to go to lectures hungry. To even consider increasing fees at a time like this is completely unacceptable."

Councillor Barrett is calling on the government to honour its commitments and protect students from further financial hardship.

“We need a firm commitment that this increase will not go ahead. Instead of making college even more expensive, we should be working towards abolishing fees altogether. Education is a right, not a privilege for those who can afford it.”

He is urging students, parents, and the people of Mayo to contact their TDs and demand action.

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. Our young people deserve better.”