Madam, - I would like to make a simple point regarding the discussion on third-level fees. The total expenditure on the "free fees" scheme has been estimated at about €1.6 billion. Intel has invested nearly €5 billion in Ireland, and Wyeth almost €1 billion, largely as a result of the tax incentives offered and the availability of college graduates.
These figures are for just two companies operating in Ireland.
I leave those who question the economic rationale of continuing the "free fees" scheme to do the maths themselves and decide if the taxpayer gets value for money. - Yours, etc.,
JAMES FRYAR, Albert College Park, Dublin 9.