Madam, - Sean Flynn (March 3rd) writes that the Minister for Education is expected to back a new student loan system, rather than the return of up-front college fees, as part of his plan to widen third-level access.
In reply I wish to say that I agree with the idea of a plan to widen third-level access, because everyone who has sufficient ability should have access to higher education, regardless of social background, economic means, race or religion. But I do not agree with the way the Minister is proposing to deal with this problem.
To bring back fees - whether in the form of student loans or not - is not going to make the system more equitable and would be a step backwards. The 1997 decision to abolish university fees did away with covenants and resulted in the opening of third-level places to more people. I think this a fairer system and less complicated.
The proposed student loan scheme is to be based on the Australian scheme. I read recently that some 15 per cent of Australian students default on their loans, mainly by emigrating. Could the same happen here?
Many Irish graduates opt to emigrate for a few years to further their careers. Will they ever feel encouraged to return to pay off a €10,000 loan for their education and then start looking for a huge mortgage to buy a house? I think not. - Yours, etc.,
JOHN LEONARD,
Rochestown Avenue,
Dun Laoghaire,
Co Dublin.