Departmental Schemes

Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Questions (1263)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

1263. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the policy rationale for excluding certain QQI validated undergraduate programmes delivered by private higher education institutions from eligibility under the free fees initiative and from SUSI grant support; whether he is aware that the BA (Hons) in Psychology at Carlow College is currently the only undergraduate programme at that institution not approved for State funding despite its QQI validation; whether this policy position has been reviewed in light of the objectives of the National Access Plan for Higher Education 2022-2028, particularly commitments to reducing financial barriers, supporting regional and place based access, and widening participation among socio economically disadvantaged and non traditional learners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34262/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

The Deputy may be aware that Carlow College, Saint Patrick’s (CCSP) is a private higher education institution. Private higher education institutions, like CCSP, may be eligible to receive funding from the State for limited courses that are approved for funding under specific initiatives. Under the respective arrangements, the State has agreed to provide funding for specific courses in line with specific agreements made between the relevant funding body and the private institution.

As the Deputy will appreciate, public funded schemes, such as the Free Fees Initiative and the Student Grant Scheme, must have cost controls to stay within available budgets and meet public spending requirements.

While private institutions play an important role in the overall higher education landscape, they are independent bodies that may choose to develop and operate courses outside of those approved for State funding. The establishment of such courses does not give rise to the provision of State funding to support delivery.

It remains open to private colleges to apply for funding through competitive call processes, such as Springboard+, to provide courses in response to national skill needs.