138. Deputy David Maxwell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to clarify the Government’s position on student fees, in light of recent media reports suggesting that fees may not be reduced as previously indicated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37219/26]

Higher Education Institutions are autonomous bodies responsible for their own academic affairs, including the development of relevant curriculum, determining tuition fees outside of the Free Fees Initiative and student numbers on individual courses. Tuition fees can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of course and the method of provision.

As part of Budget 2026, I introduced a permanent reduction of €500 in the Student Contribution charge, as part of the Free Fees Initiative. This flat rate reduction has reduced the rate from €3,000 to €2,500. This is the first permanent cut since free fees were introduced in 1995. It is expected to benefit around 108,000 undergraduate students with a further 14,000 apprentices benefiting from up to a 17% pro-rata reduction.

Students can also apply to SUSI to be assessed for fee grant supports. For 2025/2026, 71,670 had their fees paid in full or in part by SUSI and this is broken down as follows:

• 48,713 students received a 100% student contribution grant support;

• 4,252 students received a 50% student contribution grant;

• 18,705 students received a €500 student contribution grant.

As I look ahead to Budget 2027 it is a priority for me to continue to support families and learners with the cost of education through a range of core and targeted funding mechanisms.