The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has raised concerns over the spending of students’ and taxpayers money in light of the RTÉ Investigates documentary aired last night.

USI President Annie Hoey said, “Students and the taxpayer fund our higher education institutions. It is crucial that we have trust in their governance. Students in Ireland currently pay the second highest fees in Europe and now we are concerned how these fees are being spent. Before there can be any decision made on a new model to fund higher education we must have full faith that good governance and accountability procedures are being adhered to in our higher education institutions.

Hoey continued to raise concerns that “While investigations into these allegations is being made, it would be reckless for our Government to rush into any decision about the future funding of higher education. Higher education institutions are here to serve the public good, and the public must have confidence in how the funding of these institutions is managed. It would be inconceivable for our Government to even consider introducing Income Contingent Loans and putting students into €20,000 debt while trust in how funds are managed are now shaken”.

USI is the national representative body for the 354,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland.

See RTÉ Investigates here: http://www.rte.ie/player/ie/show/rte-investigates-30003696/10730932/

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