Around 15,000 students have descended on Government Buildings with impassioned pleas to resist university fee hikes.

The third-level demonstrators, bussed in from across the country, joined the march from Dublin's Parnell Square to Merrion Street.

Emotional chants of "Ruairi Quinn, keep your promise, Eamon Gilmore keep your promise, Enda Kenny keep your promise" and "No ifs, no buts, no education cuts" were led by Union of Students in Ireland (USI) president Gary Redmond.

Students waved their placards and banged drums while Mr Redmond took to a stage erected outside the Department of Taoiseach building.

"We will not let you destroy our country," bellowed Mr Redmond. "We will fight tooth and nail."

Amid fears that fees will be increased in the upcoming Budget, the student leader accused Fine Gael and Labour of going back on pre-election pledges to protect students and education.

"During the election campaign you were quite happy to tell us your policies on education. Why are you so quiet now?" he shouted.

"Was it a cynical ploy to get our votes? Or did you really mean it? If you meant it, let's see where you are now and let's see what you're made of."

Mr Redmond said protesting students had been accused of not wanting to contribute to Ireland's recovery.

"Well let us send this message loud and clear: We want to contribute, we want to play our part and we want to rebuild this country," he roared.