Higher Education Minister is planning to raise the fee back up to €3,000 in the next budget.
Fears are growing that student drop - out rates could spike in the face of a 33 per cent increase in their third-level registration fees.
Higher Education Minister James Lawless is admitting all options when it comes to the student contribution fee will be on the table for the forthcoming budget later this year.
The fee was lowered from 3,000 euro to 2,000 as part of the cost-of-living packages over the last three budgets.
The Minister is refusing to rule increasing the fee once again.
First year drop-outs in college are up from 9 to 13 per cent and TUS Athlone Students Union believes the situation will only get worse if the cost of education rises.
Amelia Lown, President of the Union in TUS says the difference of 1000 euro is massive for students budget:
Athlone Drag Queen Brings Glamour To The Midlands
BnM Lodges Windfarm Plans On Offaly Border
Carlow GAA Expresses Its Sympathies To Family After Work Related Inicident
Details Announced For Next Public Sector Pay Strike
Offaly TD Slams Lack Of Answers From HSE On Midlands Hospice
Two People Taken To Hospital Following Midlands Crash
Acting Media Minister Promises Enforcement Of Reforms At State Broadcaster
Trade Union Movement "Too Quiet For Far Too Long" - Forsa Rep