Lawless Dodges Fee Cut Promises

Higher education minister James Lawless is staying tight-lipped on potential college fee cuts ahead of the October budget, emphasizing he’s still in a listening phase as he gathers input from stakeholders. While he acknowledges affordability is a priority — and last year’s permanent $500 fee reduction brought costs down to $2,500 — he insists it’s too early to promise more. Lawless is balancing student needs with broader education and skills goals, while also navigating pressure from public expenditure minister Jack Chambers to slash departmental spending amid an overspend. Though frustrated by the spending levies, Lawless insists his team is efficient and is working collaboratively with Chambers. Meanwhile, Lawless and colleague Niamh Smyth firmly defend Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s leadership, reaffirming their full support for him. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5233a70742591738