Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 July 2025
1038. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update as of July 2025 on the Programme for Government commitment to develop and promote projects which build links and understanding with other EU capitals and regions in the fields of culture, education, research and innovation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39531/25]
View answerMy Department has responsibility for further and higher education as well as research and innovation. The referenced commitment is part of the Government’s overall commitment to strengthening Ireland’s place in and contribution to the European Union.
My Department is supporting and promoting three important initiatives which build links and understanding throughout the European Union. These are:
Horizon Europe - which is the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation and which facilitates collaboration between researchers and innovators across European higher education and research institutions and as well as between companies.
Eramsus+ which is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. This programme places a strong focus on social inclusion, the green and digital transitions, and promoting young people’s participation in democratic life. As well as higher education academic exchange opportunities promoted through the Higher Education Authority, Léargas, manages international and national exchange programmes in education, youth and community work, and vocational education and training. These exchanges connect people in different communities and EU countries and bring an international dimension to the work of organisations across Ireland.
The European Social Fund+ Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) programme which provides supports for people to acquire new qualifications and skills to get them into jobs and also supports a more inclusive society, with equal opportunities for young people, women and disadvantaged groups.
These programmes are playing a major role in supporting the achievement of the Programme for Government commitment referred to in the Deputy's question.
