The new president of the Union of Students of Ireland (USI) has vowed to "hold every elected politician to their election campaign promises" when he takes up his post in July.
Speaking after being chosen to lead the union at the USI's 48th annual congress in Bundoran, Co Donegal this week, Richard Morrisroe (25) said that among his other priorities would be to lobby for equality of access to education for every individual.
"Marginalised sections of society continue to find themselves excluded from opportunities at college level . . . Regardless of a person's social background, age, nationality or bank balance, education is a fundamental right," he said.
"USI is doing vital work to ensure that education issues are afforded due regard by all the political parties and candidates contesting the general election. My job from July, regardless of whoever forms the next government, will be to hold every elected politician to their election campaign promises.
"The proportion of young people entering third-level education has expanded, which augurs well for the future of our society. However, this expansion in student numbers presents challenges in terms of third-level investment and improving student financial supports." Mr Morrisroe, a graduate of psychology at University College Cork, has previously held the post of USI education officer and is now president of the UCC students' union.
He is a native of Kilcanway, Co Cork and will take over his new post from incumbent USI president Colm Hamrogue on July 1st.