YOUNG FINE Gael is calling for “a graduate taxation system” as the fairest and most viable means of funding third-level education.
The motion, the first of a number on education, will be moved this morning at the Young Fine Gael summer school in Killarney, Co Kerry, dedicated to the late Dr Garret FitzGerald.
The increase in the student population over two decades had put increased pressure on funding third-level education, the president of Young Fine Gael, Patrick Molloy said. The graduate taxation system was the fairest funding model and would give equal opportunity and educational access to all, he added.
“A financial model where graduates make no contribution at any stage is not viable in the current economic climate,” Mr Molloy said. “YFG is calling for a graduate taxation system to be introduced as soon as is possible, as this allows graduates in employment to contribute to the cost of running an education system they have had the value from, when they are in a position to pay.”
To educate students to the necessary level, universities and ITs needed funding to develop cutting-edge research. Another motion opposes cuts to Government funding of private schools.
The executive also says teachers should be required to correct a share of exam papers during the summer “as part of their contract, with no additional remuneration”.
A presentation is to be made to the family of Dr FitzGerald at the event, which about 120 delegates are scheduled to attend.