Dublin: Thousands of students will protest this morning to protest the rising cost of living and rising rents in Ireland and the lack of affordability and its effects on young people.
Third level students plan to leave classes at 11.11 am and gather at their campuses to symbolize the risk of students dropping out of courses due to financial obligations. This morning's protest calls for an end to the student contribution charge, increased funding for the higher education sector and a living wage, especially for PhD researchers.
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) says the protest aims to remind college authorities and politicians that students are not moneybags.
"Their demands revolve around the crisis in student accommodation, yet this year's budget is the government's third in a row where no provision has been made for student accommodation. Students have had to postpone their courses, sleep in cars and even travel long distances for rent. Will the government look again at student accommodation and avoid the need to invest in such accommodation? Will it listen to these students? ?"
Ireland has the highest third-level fees since the UK left the EU, and the next issue is the charge levied on students who qualify for the 'free fees' scheme. Budget 2023 announced a €1,000 reduction in student contribution rates. Unions have welcomed the reduction, but it will only apply for one year. "The 'one-off' €1,000 reduction is certainly welcome, and the reduction is too late for students who have been put off college this year because they can't afford the cost. Students are left unsure of where they stand in the future," the union said in a statement.
It also calls for today's protest, protection for tenants, rent reductions and subsidizing student accommodation from public funds. USI encouraged students to email TDs to bring to their attention the challenges faced by students for college fees, accommodation, transportation, study materials and living expenses.
"It is vital to the future of higher education in Ireland that students' voices are heard in a non-tokenistic way at all levels and your support in our work will be greatly appreciated. Trade union SIPTU yesterday issued a message of support for the student strike.
For the first time, the government took several cost-of-living measures in the budget, such as the first reduction in contribution fees in more than two decades. Investments are going to be made to implement stalled projects and build college-owned affordable housing. Minister Harris said, "We will inform the Cabinet Committee next week and meet with representatives of USI on the matter."
