The need to widen access to third-level education will be one of the main themes of the Union of Students of Ireland's (USI) annual conference in Ennis from today until Friday, writes Eibhir Mulqueen.
More than 200 delegates, representing 250,000 students from about 40 colleges in the Republic and Northern Ireland, are expected to attend. "There are many groups who are still denied the chance to further their education. In particular, the USI constantly highlights the fact that a maximum student grant of just £49 per week puts a college education beyond the means of disadvantaged households.
"Colleges must be open to everyone with an ability to learn, not closed to those with an inability to pay," he said.
Motions calling for the adoption of a policy document for disabled students, an increase in maintenance grant levels and an increase in the income limits for qualifying students will be debated over the coming days.
Mr Julian de Spainn, the USI president, said members of the Travelling community were one section who were under-represented in colleges. "It is not enough for the Government to simple recite the rhetoric of equal access. Political promises must be matched with adequate resources," he said.
Other motions to be debated will be: on-campus security; racism; students and sexual health; the new arrangements for student finance in the North; and students and depression.