The NUI, Galway Literary & Debating Society will be hosting a debate on the subject of 3rd Level fees in the Kirwan Lecture Theatre at 7pm on Thursday October 8th.

When the possibility of reintroducing third level fees first appeared on the political agenda over a year ago, the reaction from the student world was swift and widespread. With this debate, the Lit & Deb hopes to broach some difficult questions. Are students right in demanding free third level education or is college education just a privilege? Is it better to have a system like the USA where young people graduate already thousands of Euros in debt and if not, can the government afford to persist with the current system?

Lit & Deb Spokesperson Oisín Collins commented, “The possible re-introduction of fees is a huge issue that will affect thousands of people. We’re committed to running a debate which will enable students to see the arguments for and against fees, so they have a true understanding of this complex issue.”

Addressing those present will be the current NUI, Galway Students’ Union president, Donna Cummins and the president of USI, Peter Mannion who will both oppose the re-introduction of 3rd level fees. Speaking in favour of fees will be the Registrar & Deputy President of NUI Galway, Professor James Ward.