The number of students studying at third level could be set to rise, rather than fall, according to projections being compiled by the Department of Education.
The conventional wisdom in education circles that applications for third level over the next decade will fall may be challenged by the new statistics.
Some estimates have suggested that 170,000 students may end up studying at third level within 20 years. The Department of Education said last night it could not comment on the projections, which are due to go shortly to the Minister for Education, Mr Dempsey.
At present more than 131,000 students are enrolled at third level. This could be set to change because of the number of Irish immigrants returning home with young families. An increase in the number of non-nationals attending third level is also likely to be a factor, said sources.
The Combined Heads of Irish Universities said it would like to be consulted about any projections on third level being compiled by the Department.
Its director, Mr Michael McGrath, said the Government needed to set targets but had so far failed to do so.
He said the university sector was always suspicious about predictions of sharp falls in the number of students entering third level.