The Union of Students of Ireland says introducing a UK style student loan system would push more people into debt and force students out of college.
The group were responding to proposals from Fine Gael TD, Pat Deering, who says offering loans would reduce the financial stress on parents and students.
But, the USI says it would have the opposite effect.
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Joe O'Connor, President of the USI says it would put families and students under increased financial pressure:
