The Higher Education Authority reveals almost 7 thousand students dropped out before second year in 2021, with finances being cited as a main reason.
It's claimed the student contribution fee of 3 thousand euro a year is a contributing factor to rising third-level education drop out rates.
The Labour Party's calling for a publicly funded model to be introduced to reduce financial stress among students.
The Higher Education Authority reveals almost 7 thousand students dropped out before second year in 2021, with finances being cited as a main reason.

Damning Audit Reveals €1.6m Moone-Timolin Cycleway As Safety Time Bomb
Five Kildare Special Schools Included In New Scheme Bringing Therapists Directly Into Schools
Give Gardai Scramblers To Enforce Law On Illegal Bikes, Says Kildare Garda Member
Labour Urges EuroGiant To Give Workers Clarity As Job Fears Grow
Panda Raises Bin Costs In Parts Of The Capital, Leaving Door Open To Wider Hikes Across Leinster
Major Drainage Project Serving Kildare Moves To Early Procurement
Flood Risk Rises In Kildare As Multiple Areas And Routes Close
Parents Contacted After Gardaí Seize Illegal E-Scooters From Minors In Naas