He said the universities had suggested the government waive the travel ban for students.

She said the universities needed to send a clear message.

Ms Keogh said the universities should be encouraged to provide courses to degree level in Irish.

He said the universities, government and industry should sit down and work out a nationally consistent approach.

He said the universities will discharge the funds since they are in a better position to identify struggling students.

The MCCI and Animal Politico report said the universities did not respond to request for comment to their own reporting.

He said the universities competed with one another for students and were extremely dependent on income from foreign students, because government funding was inadequate.

A university spokeswoman said the universities may arrange a flight from a regional travel hub so students from various countries could get on board.

But its chief executive, Chris Whelan, said the universities had improved in other measurements, including a score based on their reputation among foreign academics.

The Irish Federation of University Teachers has said the Universities Bill will mean a serious deterioration in terms and conditions of employment.