Students have stepped up their battle against the possible return of college fees.
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) said yesterday it hoped to mobilise thousands of students for a protest march in Dublin on this day week.
Student leaders say the march, which will see students converge on Dublin from all over the Republic, could be the largest demonstration of its type in years.
Student protests in Limerick, Athlone and Kilkenny in recent weeks have all been well attended as students registered their protest.
The Minister for Education, Mr Dempsey, has said that fees may return for "those who can afford them".
His officials are now working on a report, due to be published shortly, which will set out the options.
If fees do return, it is thought the average student will be required to pay more than €3,000 a year.
However, maintenance grants and other supports will be increased for the less well off.
In another lobbying effort yesterday, USI introduced a new electronic or "e-lobbying" system. By accessing the site www.fightfees.com students and their families can directly lobby any politician.
Mr Colm Jordan, the president of the USI, said: "Judging from calls received in our office, there is a groundswell of public anger at the proposed reintroduction of fees.
"The beauty of this site is that it allows constituents to voice this opposition to their local politicians and Government Ministers in a straightforward and user-friendly manner.
"Students or members of their family simply access the site and fill in a message which is delivered directly to the politician".
Mr Jordan, one of the most high-profile student leaders of recent years, donned boxing gloves and trunks yesterday as part of the publicity campaign for the new site.