The Union of Students in Ireland says they've registered over 10,000 new voters this week.

The body held registration event at campuses around the country this week in the lead of up to the general election.

It is part of their 'Education Is' campaign aimed at empowering students.

10,628 students across 24 college campuses registered to vote between October 6 and 8.

“10,628 new student voters is a force to be reckoned with,” USI president, Kevin Donoghue, said.

He added that “1 in 6 people living below the poverty line are students. 73% of students are suffering from stress or anxiety because of the cost of education. The cost of college for students is €11,000 per year, so college courses can cost between €33,000 and €77,000. For many young people, this is simply unaffordable."

Mr Donoghue said "unaffordable education increases poverty traps and widens the gap between the rich and the poor. and that the large numbers registering to vote send a strong message to Government that students "will be voting for the politicians who will fight for their educational interests.”