The Union of Students in Ireland has said the lack of summer jobs and reduced Covid-19 payments will have a massive impact on students entering or returning to third level education this year, with many enquiring about deferring their courses.
Speaking on RTÉ's Today with Sarah McInerney, USI President Lorna Fitzpatrick said that many students are paying fees and rent for private accommodation where they have not been staying and the loss of summer earnings will hit them badly.
Ms Fitzpatrick said there is a massive impact on families where income of parents has also been hit and they cannot afford to support their children's return to education.