Medical students

A chara, – The Royal College of Surgeons currently charges its non-EU medical students fees of €51,000 a year. This implies that the cost of producing medical graduates in Ireland – say roughly €300,000 – is huge. Most of the burden is borne by the taxpayer.

Why medical students – a very privileged and talented section of society – should not pay their own way is an interesting question. But at a time when "nine in 10 medical students may leave Ireland on qualifying" (Home News, March 12th) the answer seems very clear – if they won't stay, make them pay. – Is mise,

CORMAC Ó GRÁDA,

Cluain Sceach, Dublin 14.