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Quinn praises students' show of strength in opposing fees

Issued : Wednesday 22 October, 2008

Ruairi Quinn has called on the government to reverse its decision to dramatically increase College Registration Fees and to abandon any plans to re-introduce tuition fees.

Addressing the 10,000 students at today's USI Student Rally outside Leinster House Deputy Quinn said: "I am delighted to see students come out in such numbers to oppose the unjust education cutbacks announced in last week's budget.

"It's fantastic to see so many students united in opposition to the reintroduction of third level fees. It just shows how many students value free access to education and how wrong the Government was to reverse Labour's decision to bring in free fees.

"Not since 1968 have Dublin's streets seen so many students march together on a single issue. I was impressed by their show of solidarity with the over 70's who protested earlier today.

"It is very encouraging to see USI give student's real leadership and a real voice on this issue at an event that has been so well organised.

"The government should be wary because, as we saw today, students aren't going to lie down on this issue and accept the return of fees.

"The increase in registration fees will hit students and their families hard at a time when money is tight. It's nothing more than a revenue generating scam."