Sinn Fein Assembly candidate Phil Flanagan yesterday spelled out the party’s opposition to the raising of student fees.

Mr Flanagan said: “One of the main issues coming up on the doorsteps is that of a possible rise on tuition fees.

“Sinn Fein will continue to oppose student fees and will use its mandate in any future Assembly to block any increases.

“We will block any attempt to raise the level of student fees if and when it comes before the Executive.

“It is important that these issues are addressed urgently as these issues affect thousands of students planning their future education.

“The minister Minister for Employment and Learning Danny Kennedy continually spoke of DEL being the engine room of economic recovery but unless everyone is able to access higher and further education that recovery will never happen.

“His statement that it is the ability to learn not the ability to pay does not auger well for students fearing an increase on fees.

“Sinn Fein believes that education is a right and we will continue to oppose any increases proposed by the minister. It is important that third level education remains accessible to everyone in our society.”