Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 April 2025
274. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will meet with higher and further education institutions that are not defined as a designated institution under the Higher Education Authority Act 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21711/25]
View answerWhen the Higher Education Authority Act 2022 was commenced, sixteen higher education institutions were automatically designated. These higher education institutions are the seven traditional universities, the technological universities, the institutes of technology, the National College of Art and Design and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
The Higher Education Authority Act 2022 also provides for a designation by order process which allows other higher education institutions to apply for designation. However, these provisions have not yet been commenced. I wish to advise that work has commenced on developing the designation by order process, including initial consideration of the conditions for designation.
This is a complex process, involving liaison with the Higher Education Authority, Quality and Qualifications Ireland and other stakeholders to ensure that the new designation process fits seamlessly within the higher education system. It is envisaged that this consultation process will include meetings with Higher Education Institutions and their representative bodies.
It is planned to make considerable progress on the development of the designation by order process and regulations during 2025, with a view to commencing the process in 2026.
Please note that the Higher Education Authority Act 2022 does not cover Further Education providers and therefore its designation process is limited to the recognition of 'designated institutions of higher education'.
