Comment & Analysis

Editorial
In a Fine Gael–Fianna Fáil Coalition, Student Issues Hang in the Balance
Repeal the eighth and the higher education funding question won't be addressed optimally if both parties go into government.

Editorial
This General Election is Actually Pretty Important for Students
The outcome of this election will determine the future of abortion rights, accommodation, mental health and higher education in Ireland.

Students Need to Carefully Consider the Promises Being Put Forward by Other Parties
Enda Kenny, the Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael, discusses education as a key driver of economic recovery, and how Fine Gael's jobs plan should matter to students.

Those Who Benefit from Graduates Must Contribute to their Third-Level Education
Eamon Ryan, leader of the Green Party, lays out a unique solution to the problems faced by third-level institutions.

Access to a Top-Quality Education Should be Determined by Hard Work, not Ability to Pay
Micheál Martin, leader of Fianna Fáil, explores the failings of the previous government and sets out a plan for more higher education funding, not less.

Analysis
Economists Agree There’s No Magic Bullet to Fund Higher Education
James Shaw explores different means by which higher education could be funded, beyond a simple yet expensive loan scheme for students.

Analysis
Ahead of Friday’s Election, Parties Target the Student Vote with Promises
Party manifestos promise to fund higher education and tackle the accommodation crisis – but few give clear details as to how.

Labour Will Not Tolerate Destructive, Socially Regressive Education Policies
Joan Burton, leader of the Labour Party, discusses future funding options for higher education that will see the sector thrive.

Analysis
The Political Parties Putting LGBT Issues to the Forefront
Sarah Scales speaks to political parties ahead of the general election on their plans for pushing LGBT issues.

Contribution
Ireland’s Anti-Establishment Movement May Appeal More to Young People than Traditional Parties
Simon Foy explores the disillusionment with traditional Irish parties and how it may shape the new Dáil.