Ireland has a two tier system of colleges -- the three big
universities and then regional ones in smaller cities. But the
faculty is paid the same whatever level they teach at!
Gene Coyle
On Aug 24, 2008, at 6:22 PM, Dan Scanlan wrote:
I just returned from two weeks in Ireland and had many conversations
relevant to politics, economy and health care delivery. I know two
weeks' time does not a study make, but I did learn a few interesting
things that I wish we had in America.
Ireland currently has a policy of college education for 100 percent
of young people, free from tuition and fees. Students from poor
families are given maintenance grants, while wealthy students still
attend free, but without a living allowance.
Everyone gets health care. But there is private supplemental
insurance, about $600 year. If you need a heart by-pass you go on
the waiting list and take your turn. But if you have supplemental
insurance you can move to the front of the line. Many of the people
I talked to were resentful of this two-tiered system and see it as
the beginning of corporate take-over of the system.
Pensioners and their young helpers ride all bus and trains free.
The Irish talk to one another in the public houses with their kids
in tow.
They think we're crazy to tolerate our politicians. The food is 300
per cent better than it was when I visited in 1991.
Many think the Irish economy has grown too fast and can teeter any
day.
Guiness is good for you.
Dan Scanlan
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