Written Answers Nos. 116-135
116. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of leaving certificate holders who accepted a university place in each of the past ten years; the number of persons who graduated from university in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37510/25]
View answerOver the past decade, access to higher education in Ireland has expanded significantly. Full-time enrolments have grown by 17% in the last 10 years from 173,000 to 202,000. CAO acceptances are up from 47,000 in 2014, to over 51,500, in 2024, a 10% increase. Acceptances at honours degree level have gone from 35,000 to 45,000, a 29% increase. Graduate numbers have risen by 31% from from 67,000 to almost 88,000.
The Irish higher education system has proactively responded to growing student demand. This growth has helped make Ireland one of the most educated countries in the world. Today, 63% of people aged 25 to 34 hold a third-level qualification, well above the EU average of 43%. Our highly educated workforce has been a key driver of our economic success, and I remain committed to ensuring our education system continues to produce the skilled graduates our country needs.
But while the progress is remarkable, challenges remain. A growing population is entering the third-level system, and we must ensure that access to tertiary education remains open to all. Current pathways work well for the majority of students but I acknowledge that there are potential learners who struggle to participate in higher education.
To meet future demand and to increase accessibility, we need a whole-of-system approach- one that includes further education and training, apprenticeships, tertiary degrees, supported part-time programmes and traditional higher education. A balanced system offers multiple pathways for learners. New tertiary programmes outside the CAO system now provide alternative routes to a degree, especially for those who didn’t get the points for their preferred course.
My Department continues to prioritise expanding and diversifying tertiary education to meet student demand, address skills gaps, and support our workforce.
117. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for the latest update on the implementation of a ‘second chance’ provision to ensure students undertaking a repeat year or changing courses once can still access the free fees initiative, thereby avoiding financial penalties through higher fee rates, as committed to in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37595/25]
View answerThe policy objective of both the Free Fees Initiative (FFI) and Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI), is to help as many students as possible to obtain one qualification at each level of study and to support progression year on year within the same course.
In terms of tuition fee supports, first time students undertaking a full-time undergraduate course may be eligible to have their tuition fees, exclusive of the student contribution, paid on their behalf via my Department's Free Fees Initiative. To avail of funding under the initiative, students must meet the criteria of the scheme including progression, nationality and residency rules.
The Free Fees Initiative does not currently provide support for a repeat period of study. However, in cases of ‘exceptional circumstances’, such as certified illness, an institution may use its discretion to offer free fees to a student who needs to repeat a year. Similar ‘exceptional circumstances’ rules apply under the SUSI scheme.
Where students do not qualify for free fees funding, they must pay the appropriate fee as determined by each higher education institution. These institutions are autonomous bodies and the level of fee payable by students who do not meet the requirements of the Free Fees Initiative is a matter for the relevant institution to determine. Where a student requires guidance on the determination of such fees, it is necessary that a student engage with the fees office of the institution attended.
The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government contains a number of commitments that will be progressed during the lifetime of this Government. One of these commitments relates to a ‘second chance’ option for students going through a repeat year or changing courses. The Deputy will appreciate that it is not feasible to deliver on all the Programme for Government commitments in Year One. However, I do intend to progress the various commitments over the lifetime of this Government.
Ahead of Budget 2026, I will publish an options paper, which will identify costs and potential impacts of various policy options aimed at reducing the cost of higher education. This paper will inform decision-making ahead of Budget 2026.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
118. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the development of the Modern Methods of Construction Demonstration Park at Mount Lucas; the number of beneficiaries who will receive near zero energy building and retrofitting training at the centre in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37617/25]
View answerI would like to thank the Deputy for his question.
Located at the National Construction Training Campus in Mount Lucas, the National Demonstration Park for modern methods of construction will serve as a national hub to showcase housing MMC products and systems. It is designed to facilitate training, awareness-raising, and industry engagement.
In order to progress the Park, we have approved the completion of Phase 1 of the project. Approval has also been provided by the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This joint Ministerial approval underlines the whole-of-government commitment to the Park and the vital activities it will undertake.
Currently, the initial groundworks for the Park are underway.
I was delighted to see this work in person during the recent breaking of the ground ceremony at the Park on 9th June. This marked an important milestone for the project, and the presence of the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Deputy Peter Burke, and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy James Browne, again highlighted the importance of the Park.
In relation to Retrofit and Near Zero Energy Buildings training, the Centre of Excellence in Mount Lucas has had 1,361 learners up to the end of June this year. This is 43% of all learners across all Centres of Excellence in that period. Provision is demand led with learner numbers updated throughout the year as more people register for the courses.
119. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if the same income eligibility limits for SUSI grants are applicable for students attending approved colleges and courses outside our jurisdiction, such as in Northern Ireland, Britain or the rest of the EU, as are applicable for students attending approved colleges or courses in this State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37647/25]
View answerThe income limit eligibility criteria for various grants under the Student Grant Scheme is the same for all students. However, the types of grants available varies depending on circumstances including course type and location.
Irish students who study in Northern Ireland, in EU member states and in Britain are entitled to certain supports provided by the Student Grant Scheme as administered by SUSI.
Such students are eligible for maintenance grants for undergraduate programmes across the EU and in Northern Ireland and Britain. In general, an approved undergraduate course in this context is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of not less than two years duration pursued in a university or third level institution, which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds in another EU Member State or the UK.
The Act also provides for the payment of tuition fees for certain postgraduate programmes in Northern Ireland, but in general tuition fees are not provided for in other jurisdictions.
120. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline the targeted supports he intends to give to families for the upcoming college year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37437/25]
View answerI am very conscious of the financial challenges facing students and the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address costs as a barrier to education. I am committed to easing this burden for students and their families in a financially sustainable way.
In financial terms, the main support available for students attending full time higher education is the Student Grant Scheme.
From September 2025, all income thresholds under the Student Grant Scheme will increase. The income threshold for the special rate of maintenance is increasing in line with Social Welfare increases and all other income thresholds are increasing by at least 15%.
Following these recent revisions, the income threshold to receive a Student Contribution grant now stands at €115,000 which is the highest it has ever been. This means that students who were not eligible previously may now qualify for a Student Contribution Grant. SUSI is now open for applications, and I would encourage students to check out SUSI’s website www.susi.ie to see if they are eligible for support.
The Programme for Government commits to reducing the student contribution in a financially sustainable manner, over the lifetime of this Government. I fully intend to progress this, starting from the base figure of €3,000 and advancing measures to reduce that over time in a way that is equitable, funded and fair and less reliant on temporary subventions which, whilst providing welcome relief, remain uncertain from year to year.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
121. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his rationale regarding the change in the student contribution charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37620/25]
View answer124. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science about the proposed increase in third level fees, if this proposed increase will be in place for September 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37634/25]
View answer130. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline the plans there are to reduce third level student fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37555/25]
View answer131. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the progress on implementing the Programme for Government commitment to “Continue to reduce the student contribution fee over the lifetime of the Government to ease the financial burden on students and families at the start of each academic year, in a financially sustainable manner”; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37645/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 121, 124, 130 and 131 together.
I am acutely conscious of the financial challenges facing students and the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address costs as a barrier to education. I am committed to easing this burden for students and their families in a financially sustainable way.
Almost all full-time undergraduate students have their tuition fees paid in full by the State through the Free Fees Initiative; additionally, almost half of all students have their Student Contribution Fee paid in full or in part by the State. In addition, a variety of supports are available through SUSI.
The base rate for the student contribution remains at €3,000 and this is paid by free fees eligible students when attending Higher Education Institutions, with many benefiting from a subvention in whole or in part from SUSI, depending on their eligibility, as set out above.
In recent years, a once-off €1,000 reduction to this contribution has been provided for as part of cost-of-living packages for students over the last three budgets. I am keen to continue supporting measures however it has been confirmed in recent weeks that no “cost of living” ancillary package will be provided from central government in the current year. On that basis, I need to look at various policy options available to me ahead of Budget 2026.
I hosted a cost of education event in early April to better inform the decisions on this issue and to meet with representative groups. This event was attended by key stakeholders from the tertiary education sector. The event served as an opportunity for all to have their say on the key cost of education issues.
The Programme for Government commits to reducing the student contribution in a financially sustainable manner over the lifetime of this Government. I fully intend to progress this, starting from the base figure of €3,000 and advancing measures to reduce that over time in a way that is equitable, funded, and fair, and less reliant on temporary subventions which, whilst providing welcome relief, remain uncertain from year to year.
Ahead of Budget 2026, I will publish an options paper, which will identify costs and potential impacts of various policy options aimed at reducing the cost of higher education. This paper will inform decision-making ahead of Budget 2026.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
122. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps his Department is taking to ensure that the construction of the five new higher education buildings aligns with and supports universities' carbon reduction targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37613/25]
View answerI recently had the pleasure of marking the start of construction of the second phase of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership Programme. This phase includes five projects at Atlantic Technological University in Galway and Letterkenny, South East Technological University in Waterford and Carlow, and the Technological University of the Shannon in Limerick.
I also recently marked the successful completion of construction in the first phase of six buildings, delivered on time and on budget, at Technological University Dublin in Tallaght and Blanchardstown, Technological University of the Shannon in Athlone, Munster Technological University in Cork and Tralee, and the Institute of Art, Design and Technology in Dún Laoghaire.
Once complete, the programme will provide 72,800 square metres of additional space and will cater for circa 8,500 student places.
To meet our sustainability goals on the second phase, we are implementing zero carbon solutions for heating and cooling. These include heat pumps, passive design strategies, and on-site solar PV systems.
We are also pursuing BREEAM ( Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification to ensure high quality in design, construction, and operation - focusing on energy efficiency, material selection, and occupant wellbeing.
All buildings will achieve a minimum Building Energy Rating of A3, through high-performance insulation, airtight construction, smart energy controls, and efficient mechanical systems.
These measures will ensure our buildings are environmentally responsible, future-ready, and cost-effective to operate supporting a more sustainable higher education sector.
123. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline the number of students in receipt of various levels of SUSI grant; his plans to improve access to higher education by expanding the SUSI grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37373/25]
View answerIn 2024/2025 academic year, SUSI processed over 101,600 applications of which 81,697 were awarded and to date 76,751 have been paid.
I will provide the Deputy with a full chart showing the number of students paid a grant by rate for the 2024/2025 academic year as at the 04.07.2025.
I can, however, confirm now that
• 48,643 students were paid a maintenance grant. Where a student is eligible for a full maintenance grant they are also entitled to a full student contribution grant.
• 6,415 students received a 100% Student Contribution Grant.
• 3,875 students received a 50% Student Contribution Grant.
• 17,268 students received a €500 grant towards their Student Contribution Grant.
• 2,984 students received a Postgraduate Fee Contribution.
• 110 students received a part-time fee grant.
I am very much aware that the rising cost of living continues to impact students and their families.
From September 2025, all income thresholds under the Student Grant Scheme will increase. The income threshold for the special rate of maintenance is increasing in line with Social Welfare increases and all other income thresholds are increasing by at least 15%.
Following these recent revisions, the income threshold to receive a Student Contribution grant now stands at €115,000 which is the highest it has ever been. This means that undergraduate students who were not eligible previously may now qualify for a Student Contribution Grant.
SUSI is now open for applications, and I would encourage students to check out www.susi.ie to see if they are eligible for support.
Number of students paid a SUSI grant for the 2024/2025 academic year
|
Grant Rate |
2024/25 |
|
Special Rate - Non-Adjacent* |
9,010 |
|
Special Rate – Adjacent* |
7,314 |
|
Band 1 - Non-Adjacent* |
12,675 |
|
Band 1 – Adjacent* |
8,763 |
|
Band 2 - Non-Adjacent* |
823 |
|
Band 2 – Adjacent* |
507 |
|
Band 3 - Non-Adjacent* |
1,662 |
|
Band 3 – Adjacent* |
1,129 |
|
Band 4 - Non-Adjacent* |
4,048 |
|
Band 4 – Adjacent* |
2,712 |
|
Student Contribution 100% |
6,415 |
|
Student Contribution 50% |
3,875 |
|
Postgraduate Fee Contribution (only) |
405 |
|
Postgraduate Tuition Fees |
35 |
|
€500 Student Contribution Grant |
17,268 |
|
Part Time Undergraduate Fee Contribution |
110 |
|
Total |
76,751** |
*The non-adjacent rate is awarded when a student’s college is 30km or more from their normal residence. The adjacent rate is awarded when a student’s college is less than 30km from their normal residence.
**Please note that these figures will change as processing continues for the academic year 2024/25.
Undergraduate Students eligible for maintenance may also be entitled to a grant towards their student contribution. Postgraduate students eligible for maintenance may also be entitled to a postgraduate fee contribution.
These figures are correct as of 4 July 2025.
125. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will consider providing a career pathway for healthcare assistant profession through a third level course, apprenticeship, social care degree or community care degree; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37633/25]
View answerI recognise the vital role healthcare assistants play across many care settings in Ireland. The development of a career pathway for Health Care Assistants falls under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Health. My officials and I are working closely with officials in the Department of Health to support its workforce planning needs through the provision of additional places across key professions which it has identified. This is also a commitment in the Programme for Government, 2025, Securing Ireland's Future.
Multiple pathways support entry and progression, including QQI Level 5 awards through Further Education and Training (FET) and Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses, offered both online and in-person. The 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) provide guidance and support to learners from diverse backgrounds seeking careers in healthcare.
For those wishing to advance, there are NFQ Level 8 healthcare degrees available through courses co-delivered by ETBs and higher education institutions. Applications are managed by the National Tertiary Office.
Since 2021, a Level 6 Advanced Healthcare Assistant Practitioner apprenticeship has been available, with 33 current apprentices and 34 graduates. Additionally, a Level 8 Social Care apprenticeship is in development, led by a consortium including TUSLA and UCC.
Healthcare Assistants can progress vertically into nursing or midwifery via sponsorship programmes or horizontally into allied health assistant roles. My Department is continuing to work closely with the Department of Health and stakeholders to examine and develop the expansion of academic pathways aligned with workforce needs and lifelong learning.
126. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the third level fee supports that are available for graduate medicine students; if he will outline future plans for this if none are currently in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37571/25]
View answerGraduate Entry Medicine (GEM) is a pathway for degree holders who want to pursue a medical career on an accelerated four-year programme. Students pursuing GEM programmes do so as second degree courses and consequently are not eligible for free fees funding. They are also not eligible for funding under the Student Grant Scheme as they do not meet the progression criteria of the Scheme.
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are autonomous bodies and are responsible for their own day-to-day management and operational affairs, including the management of academic affairs. They retain the right to determine their own policies and procedures. The total level of fees to be charged in the case of GEM fees are therefore solely a matter for the relevant institution to determine in line with its own criteria.
The State currently provides a subsidy, via the Higher Education Authority, to HEIs towards the cost of GEM provision for EU student places. The subsidy provides support for broadening access to GEM programmes by assisting HEIs in providing the courses at lower fee rates for EU students than would otherwise be required for the HEIs to offer the courses on a sustainable basis.
In terms of student supports, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science provides bursaries to students who have been identified by their higher education institution as being the most socio-economically disadvantaged students under the National Access Plan. Students who avail of these bursaries will now be allowed to retain them, if they choose to enter GEM programmes. This is a welcome development and will also help diversify the profession.
Students on GEM programmes may be eligible to apply to the Student Assistance Fund (SAF) for financial support. This Fund provides financial support to full and part-time students who are experiencing financial difficulties while attending college and can provide assistance towards their rent, childcare costs, transport costs and books/class materials. Applications can be made to this Fund through the Access Office in a student’s higher education institution.
In addition, tax relief at the standard rate of tax may be available in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education. A rent tax credit may also be available. More information is available on www.revenue.ie.
I very much recognise the significant financial pressures faced by students due to various expenses and the rising cost of living. It remains a top priority for me to continue to explore the most effective ways to support students in managing these costs, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to succeed in their studies.
My Department will publish an Options Paper in the Autumn which will set out measures to help reduce the cost of education for students and families across Further and Higher Education, Research and Apprenticeships for consideration as part of the budgetary process.
127. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps he is taking to address the falling rates of literacy, meaning the increase in the percentage of adults aged 16 to 65 in Ireland who are at or below level 1 on the OECD's five-level literacy scale. [37447/25]
View answerThis Government believes that literacy is a human right as it allows each of us to fully engage in society and be active citizens.
That is why promoting the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy is a key priority for Government, my Department, SOLAS and the ETBs. Launched in 2021, the 10-year ALL Strategy aims to equip all adults with essential literacy, numeracy, and digital skills for full societal and workforce participation. It takes a cross-government, cross-society, and cross-economy approach to tackle adult literacy challenges and promote lifelong learning.
My Department invests €4 million annually to implement the ALL Strategy. Achievements include establishing a cross-government structure and a National Programme Office in SOLAS; active national and regional literacy coalitions across the 16 ETBs; funding over 270 literacy projects through the Collaboration and Innovation Fund; national awareness campaigns reaching over one million homes; training 100 government and public service staff in plain language and literacy training; and development of health literacy initiatives. These are just highlights to date, with a work programme planned for 2025.
I had the pleasure of addressing the Literacy Changing Lives event in June at Croke Park where I saw firsthand the transformative impact of basic literacy and numeracy skills can have on people’s lives.
I trust the Deputy will recognise that the progress outlined reflects a strong and coordinated effort to improve adult literacy. Sustained commitment across Government departments and agencies is essential to build on this momentum and secure lasting improvements for adult learners.
128. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the measures he is taking to reduce commuting times for students who must travel over county lines to attend third level education. [37635/25]
View answerThe Department of Transport is responsible for transport policy and overseeing transport services and infrastructure while transport to each campus is a matter for individual HEIs.
The Department of Transport is in the process of finalising a new transport strategy for the consideration and approval of Government this year. This draft strategy, referred to as ‘Moving Together’, includes a recommendation related to third level education and the promotion of more sustainable commuting through the implementation of climate action strategies and the Green Campus Programme.
Officials from my Department formed part of the Department of Transport’s ‘Generators of Demand - People’ expert subgroup given the tertiary sector’s role in generating transport journeys; thereby inputting directly into the draft National Demand Management Strategy. The implementation of agreed recommendations will commence following Government approval of the strategy.
The development of local area demand management schemes in conjunction with the relevant local authorities aims to provide targeted public transport services, aligned to college/university timetables, with support for alternative travel methods to and from college through provision of cycle ways and bike to college schemes.
Under the Public Sector Climate Action Strategy 2023-2025 public bodies are tasked with encouraging the use of sustainable transport modes and acquiring the NTA’s Smarter Travel Mark to demonstrate robust communications, policies, facilities, incentives and supports in favor of sustainable commuting.
As part of regular Departmental stakeholder engagement with the tertiary sector in 2024, regional transport coordinators were brought together with estates managers to highlight the student transport and travel agenda. My Department continues to support the Department of Transport to develop a better understanding of travel patterns in order to identify sustainable mobility gaps for our students.
A new Technological Sector Pilot programme will be developed under the Department’s revised student accommodation strategy. The Department’s vision is that all higher education providers will undertake a role in terms of supporting students with supply of accommodation and access to sustainable transport. The pilot programme aims to improve on the provision of sustainable travel options to supplement student accommodation at Technological Sector campuses, by engaging with local and national transport providers to provide targeted services aligned to HEI timetables.
129. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the actions his Department is taking to increase access to student accommodation in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37416/25]
View answerMy focus is on delivering targeted and effective interventions that promote equitable access to higher education across the country. This means addressing the challenges that may prevent students from progressing to or through third-level education due to difficulties in securing or affording suitable accommodation.
To effectively address the challenges in student accommodation, we are employing four key tools: the development of standardised design approaches to improve efficiency and reduce costs; the use of enhanced supply and demand data to inform planning and investment decisions; the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme to support regionally balanced, institution-specific delivery models; and the national student accommodation survey to capture the lived experiences and needs of students across the country.
I recently published the Design Guide for State Sponsored Student Accommodation. The Design Guide reflects feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring the design standards are both practical and responsive to real-world needs. It will support the efficient delivery of additional student accommodation that prioritises student wellbeing, provides long-term value for the State, and embodies high quality architectural design.
A key part of enabling our vision is ensuring that the Technological Sector can play a full role in developing student accommodation to meet the needs of students across the country. To support this, the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme is progressing. Proposals from the sector include the construction of new Purpose-Built Student Accommodation, leasing, nomination agreements, joint ventures and repurposing of vacant properties. Atlantic Technological University Galway is participating in this programme.
Separately, the University of Galway opened 674 new beds at Dunlin Village for the 2023/2024 academic year, and on Queen Street over 300 new beds are in development by the private sector supported by Ireland Strategic Investment Fund.
My department will continue to promote digs type accommodation as an alternative option that students might consider as a convenient and more affordable option for some. As an initiative to address the shortage of beds for those attending college, the Department has developed an advertising campaign asking homeowners to rent rooms to students. Department’s ‘digs’ promotional campaigns which ran in 2023 and 2024 have seen a signification increase in beds listed by higher education institutions for students.
My Department will continue to work closely with higher education institutions to develop and implement accommodation initiatives under this strategy. I am committed to ensuring that the development of viable student accommodation continues with urgency and ambition. I intend to bring the Student Accommodation Strategy to Government later this year.
132. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the means by which his Department is working to simplify apprenticeship pathways. [37330/25]
View answerA key objective of my Department's Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021-2025 is that apprenticeships are available and valued as a work based learning opportunity, providing sought after qualifications across the tertiary education and training sector.
The Government is committed to improving access to information and supports for apprentices. In 2021, the National Apprenticeship Office (NAO) was established as a single point of contact for employers and as a dedicated body to promote and raise the profile of apprenticeships among prospective learners.
Progress to date includes the inclusion of apprenticeship options on the CAO website and the launch of the National Apprenticeship Office Freephone Advice Helpline in January 2022, which is a year round service providing information directly to apprentices, employers and other interested parties regarding apprenticeship. Apprenticeship.ie has also been launched which is a dedicated one-stop website for apprentices to find employment and for employers to advertise opportunities.
To build on what has already been achieved, my Department has recently commissioned market research on how employers and learners interact with the apprenticeship system. The findings of this research will inform the continuing work of Government to simplify pathways to apprenticeship, along with increasing people's awareness of these options.
Reaching schools and career guidance counsellors who can influence young people is also very important. The National Apprenticeship Office is continuing to work with the Institute of Irish Guidance Counsellors to promote and increase awareness of apprenticeship.
My Department launched the Careers in Construction Action Plan in August 2023, which has social media campaigns and other communication initiatives highlighting the opportunities available in construction including through apprenticeship in order to change perceptions of these roles, in particular for girls and women.
World Skills Ireland, sponsored by my Department, is also promoting skills based careers and apprenticeship to over 30,000 second level students from across the country.
133. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will confirm that he has engaged with the president of a school (details supplied) regarding Gaeltacht placement fees for post-primary teachers; if he has considered their request for funding parity with their primary education teaching counterparts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36975/25]
View answerI am happy to confirm that my Department received the correspondence in question, on the 18th of June 2025, regarding Gaeltacht placement fees for post primary teachers. I would like to clarify that the correspondence in question was sent on behalf of an academic department within the College, rather than the President.
As matters relating to teacher education, including the Gaeltacht Learning Period grant, are under the remit of the Department of Education and Youth, this correspondence has been passed on to the Minister for Education and Youth for her consideration. Officials from my Department remain available to engage with their colleagues in the Department of Education and Youth should there be a need, and pending consideration of the matter by the Minister for Education and Youth.
134. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on funding to replace or upgrade basic research equipment in our universities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37372/25]
View answerI thank the Deputy for raising this important issue which is a priority for my Department. Research infrastructure is an integral element of any national research and innovation system. It is critical for training students as well as researchers. It enables researchers across all disciplines to undertake cutting edge research, to be internationally competitive and to produce new knowledge and innovations for both economic and wider societal impact. Modern research infrastructure is essential to ensuring that the higher education system contributes fully to closing the innovation gap, enhancing national competitiveness and improving productivity levels.
In March of this year, I established a Working Group in response to the Programme for Government commitment to advance a strategic and comprehensive approach to the research infrastructure requirements of the higher education sector, and in line with Impact 2030, Ireland’s national research and innovation strategy.
The Working Group has undertaken an in-depth review of the existing infrastructural stock across the higher education institutions. It has considered national programmatic approaches to date, having regard to the original landmark Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions, and more recent initiatives. It has also reviewed international good practice in other small advanced economies.
I am now consulting closely with Government colleagues with regard to the requirements that have been identified for modernising our research infrastructure and equipment, within the wider context of the National Development Plan review currently underway.
135. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will approve funding for the South East Technological University's health, pharmacy, veterinary and apprenticeship buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37403/25]
View answerUnder the National Development Plan, my Department allocates capital investment to Higher Education Institutions (including SETU) through competitive programmatic funding calls managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). These funding calls invite applications from Universities and Technological Universities, which typically respond to these calls by submitting Preliminary Business Cases (PBCs). The HEA evaluates submissions based on strategic fit, value for money and alignment with national priorities before making recommendations to my Department on prioritisation of investment opportunities offered. Any decision to allow a project to proceed through PBC stage is not considered a guarantee of capital investment
SETU currently has a number of projects with the HEA, these include:
• SETU’s One health building PBC has been reviewed under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund (TSSPF). An Evaluation Panel was convened to assess the application. A summary evaluation report from the HEA is expected shortly.
• SETU has been recommended to progress with a Master of Pharmacy and a Veterinary Medicine degree under the HEA Expression of Interest process. SETU is working with the HEA to develop appropriate capital plans to support these courses. Subject to engagement with the relevant professional bodies for accreditation, it is anticipated that these programmes will have their first intake in September 2026, with up to 40 students on each programme.
• SETU’s Apprenticeship Building project submitted a PBC to the HEA, under the Apprenticeship Expansion Programme 2024 for a new apprenticeship building in September 2024. An Evaluation Report was submitted to my Department towards the end of last month. This report is currently under review and a response will issue to the HEA once that process has concluded.
