Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
263. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if the necessary funding will be provided to the dental school in UCC, which has submitted a proposal to the Department for the expansion of their training programme, which would involve the development of a new hub in which additional students could be trained and practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67262/25]
View answerThe Government is firmly committed to ensuring a sustainable pipeline of highly skilled dental professionals to meet the growing oral healthcare needs of our population. My Department, working closely with the Department of Health, the Higher Education Authority (HEA), and higher education institutions, plays a central role in planning and delivering the education and training infrastructure required for this purpose.
Until recently, approximately 60 places per year were available for Irish and EU students in dentistry programmes. Recognising that this represents a limited training pipeline, we have taken steps to expand capacity. A new Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland will commence in 2025, adding at least 20 new places annually for Irish/EEA students. This represents a 33% increase in national capacity, with further growth planned in subsequent years.
In relation to University College Cork (UCC), I am aware that the institution has submitted a proposal for a dental outreach centre, seeking €4.7 million in capital funding. This initiative would enable training of an additional 10 undergraduate dental students annually and aligns with the Smile agus Sláinte oral health policy by adopting a community-based model of dental education. UCC is also investing €15 million in refurbishing its Dental School and Hospital, co-funded by the Department of Health and UCC.
Discussions are ongoing between my Department and the Department of Health to progress this proposal and to ensure that any investment maximises Irish and EU student places, delivers value for money, and supports the long-term sustainability of the dental workforce.
Expanding dental education capacity remains a strategic priority for this Government. We will continue to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that future developments are evidence-based, meet national needs, and contribute to a modern and accessible oral healthcare system.
