Local Independent councillor, Michael O’Brien, has renewed his call for the Government to introduce free travel for third level students ahead of the new college year in September, as costs for students continue to rise.
Cllr O’Brien said that he has received massive support for the scheme from both constituents and public representatives from across the political spectrum since he first brought it forward as a proposal to the council last year.
“I know from speaking to parents and students that the cost of sending students to third level education or further education continues to rise,” Cllr O’Brien said. “The rising costs of registration fees, accommodation, and transport are becoming unsustainable for many students and their parents. The Government need to be more proactive in looking at ways to ease the financial burden on students and parents and one such way is to provide free public transport for all full-time students.
“The introduction of free student travel would also go a long way in developing a public travel culture, removing cars from the road and freeing up car parking places in colleges. I have made renewed contact on the proposal with the Minister for State, Kevin “Boxer” Moran, and Transport Minister, Shane Ross, and requested that it be given serious consideration. Aside from reducing the cost of third level education, it will also promote the use of public transport.”
