A new plan to introduce student loans for college students is being criticised as bringing back 'full college fees through the back door'.

A draft report by the government proposes that loan repayments be paid back - at 25 euro a week over 15 years for college tuition - once a student is earning a certain level of income.

The Union of Students believes increased funding should be found elsewhere - like from the government - given Ireland already has the second highest fees in Europe.

Helen Vaughan reports.