Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 9 September 2024
2011. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the status of the development of the new veterinary training course; whether the location has been finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35810/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraExpansion of provision of Veterinary Medicine programmes is a key priority for Government. However, these programmes are complex to deliver and require appropriate equipment, laboratory facilities, and appropriately qualified academic staff, to meet the requirements of the regulator.
As you are aware, the HEA Expression of Interest process brought to Government in June last year identified a number of options to expand third level places. The options identified through the HEA's process have the potential to transform the numbers of students who can take up places in these key areas. This would be an expansion at a scale rarely seen and is a significant investment of public funding in our Higher Education Institutions.
I hope to be in a position to make an announcement on this matter in the coming weeks.
