McHugh’s comments on third level show a lack of vision
Labour Party Education spokesperson, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, has branded Minister Joe McHugh’s recent comments on access to third level as an insult.
Senator Ó Ríordáin said:
“Minister McHugh’s comments relating to students who face financial burdens are deeply disturbing and should be withdrawn.
“Unfortunately, they give an insight into the mindset of a Fine Gael administration which is being propped up by ineffective Independent ministers.
“For the Minister for Education to suggest to those families that can’t afford third level that it is something they just have to live with, is frankly outrageous.
“The Minister for Education should be leading the battle for access for everyone. To shrug one’s shoulders and to point poorer young people in the direction of ‘regional colleges’ is an insult to everyone who believes in the power of Education as a tool to drive equality.
“The Minister needs to withdraw his remarks, apologise for them, and outline what specific measures he intends to pursue to ensure that no student of limited means will ever have their dreams dashed because of a visionless government.”