Fianna Fáil says the reintroduction of grants for thousands of postgraduate students is “absolutely essential”.

Restoring the grants, axed during a round of austerity-era cost-cutting, is estimated to cost about €50 million.

Fianna Fáil’s education spokesman Thomas Byrne said a new education strategy being prepared by Minister for Education Richard Bruton must include such a measure to help undo damage caused by five years of “regressive policies”.

“The removal of postgraduate grants was an appallingly regressive move which acted as a barrier to accessing further education...The restoration of these grants is absolutely essential.

“In addition, whatever decisions are made in the future about funding third-level, without a doubt a substantial and recurrent increase in funding is absolutely required, as is clearly recommended through the Cassells Report [on the future funding of the sector].”

Given the make-up of the minority administration, Fianna Fáil demands to restore the grant are likely to carry significant weight.

Mr Burton has previously signalled he wishes to take steps to support less well-off students to enter the education system, but has insisted there are limited funds available. He is preparing a three-year education strategy which is informed by the programme for government.

This document contains a commitment to “increase financial supports for postgraduate students with a particular focus on those from low-income households”.

Budget

Mr Byrne, meanwhile, said a new strategy must represent a “complete change” in direction for the education system.

“The previous Fine Gael-led government did enormous damage to our education system.

“They dismantled schemes which had helped tackle inequality in the education system. Small schools were also placed at risk, third-level fees were increased and guidance counselling was effectively abolished in many schools.”

Fianna Fáil priorities include enhancing primary education through a reduction in the pupil-teacher ratio, increased capitation funding to reduce the burden on schools and parents and supporting small schools.

At second level, Mr Byrne said the restoration of ex-quota provision of guidance counselling was a top priority.

“Further resources for special educational needs at all levels must also be emphasised in the new Government strategy,” Mr Byrne added.