Written Answers Nos. 2541-2563
2541. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to remove the mature dependant category in SUSI and treat all those over the age of 23 as independent regardless of their living situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19758/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is my intention to publish an Annual Options Paper outlining measures to help reduce the cost of education for students and families across Further and Higher Education, Research and Apprenticeships. The paper will also provide an overview of ongoing work in relation to Student Accommodation.
This paper will set out various options for further enhancement of student supports for consideration as part of the budgetary process in the Autumn.
2542. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to pay a living wage to all students engaging with mandatory placement as part of their study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19762/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe data needed to make the estimates requested by the Deputy are not held by my Department nor the agencies under its remit.
Work placements are organised at the level of each individual Higher Education Institution (HEI), as part of their programme offerings to be delivered in conjunction with relevant placement providers. The type and duration of work placement required varies by programme. Any remuneration provided for work undertaken while on placement is a matter for the placement provider.
2543. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to extend the SUSI postgraduate maintenance rate to the summer months also as they are still students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19764/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is my intention to publish an Annual Options Paper outlining measures to help reduce the cost of education for students and families across Further and Higher Education, Research and Apprenticeships. The paper will also provide an overview of ongoing work in relation to Student Accommodation.
This paper will set out various options for further enhancement of postgraduate student supports for consideration as part of the budgetary process in the Autumn.
2544. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to extend the SUSI maintenance rate to the summer months for students on placement as they are still students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19765/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main support available to students is the statutory based Student Grant Scheme. Under the terms of the Student Grant Scheme, grant assistance is awarded to students attending an approved course in an approved institution who meet the prescribed conditions of funding including those which relate to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means.
The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the centralised student grant awarding authority SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) to determine.
I am aware of the cost of placements and this area is subject to commitments in the programme for Government. The issue of paid placement however is a matter for the relevant Department with responsibility for the related placements. Queries related to placements and financial supports should be addressed to the relevant Department in the first instance.
I can confirm that a student who is in receipt of a maintenance grant will continue to receive payment of their maintenance grant during the academic year while on a placement.
It is also worth noting that the rate of grant (adjacent/non-adjacent rate) may increase as a result of the location of the placement. For example, if a student is receipt if an adjacent rate of grant (home address is less than 30km from their college) and the location of their placement is over 30 from their home address, they may be eligible to receive the higher non-adjacent rate of maintenance for the duration of their placement. In order to receive the change of rate, the placement must be a compulsory part of their course and a minimum duration of one semester.
Apart from the Student Grant Scheme, my Department also funds the Student Assistance Fund (SAF). The SAF assists students in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances. Details of this fund are available from the Access Office in the third level institution attended and on www.studentfinance.ie. This fund is administered on a confidential, discretionary basis.
2545. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to provide students on SUSI who partake in mandatory placement an additional maintenance grant of €250 similarly to the grant for Erasmus students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19767/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main support available to students is the statutory based Student Grant Scheme. Under the terms of the Student Grant Scheme, grant assistance is awarded to students attending an approved course in an approved institution who meet the prescribed conditions of funding including those which relate to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means.
The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the centralised student grant awarding authority SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) to determine.
I am aware of the cost of placements and this area is subject to commitments in the programme for Government. However, the issue of paid placement is a matter for the relevant Department with responsibility for the related placements. Queries related to placements and financial supports should be addressed to the relevant Department in the first instance.
I can confirm that a student who is in receipt of a maintenance grant will continue to receive payment of their maintenance grant during the academic year while on a placement.
It is also worth noting that the rate of grant (adjacent/non-adjacent rate) may increase as a result of the location of the placement. For example, if a student is receipt if an adjacent rate of grant (home address is less than 30km from their college) and the location of their placement is over 30 from their home address, they may be eligible to receive the higher non-adjacent rate of maintenance for the duration of their placement. In order to receive the change of rate, the placement must be a compulsory part of their course and a minimum duration of one semester.
Apart from the Student Grant Scheme, my Department also funds the Student Assistance Fund (SAF). The SAF assists students in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances. Details of this fund are available from the Access Office in the third level institution attended and on www.studentfinance.ie. This fund is administered on a confidential, discretionary basis.
2546. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the estimated cost to abolish all postgraduate fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19770/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraHigher Education Institutions are autonomous bodies responsible for their own academic affairs, including the setting of postgraduate tuition fee rates. The higher education tuition fee payable by a postgraduate student can vary depending on a variety factors, including the type of course and the fee rates of a particular institution.
To abolish postgraduate fee rates would remove an income source from higher education institutions and require the State to step in and meet the cost. My Department does not collate data on the postgraduate fees across the higher education sector. Therefore, the estimated cost of the State fully supporting all such fees is not available.
The State does provide supports to eligible postgraduate students who qualify for SUSI support. Details of these postgraduate grant supports are available at: www.susi.ie/eligibility-criteria/income/postgraduate-income-thresholds-and-grant-award-rates/
2547. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the current Government policy on the ability of higher education institutions, including universities, technological universities and institutes of technology, to borrow funds for capital or infrastructure investment; and whether such institutions are required to obtain approval or sanction before engaging in borrowing, and under what conditions. [19850/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra2548. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the borrowing framework or restrictions that apply to publicly funded higher education institutions, including technological universities and institutes of technology; and whether any approval process, legislative limitations, or fiscal rules constrain such institutions from borrowing to invest in infrastructure or strategic development, such as student accommodation. [19851/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra2549. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science whether higher education institutions, including universities and technological universities, are permitted to borrow or raise finance independently to develop student accommodation; and any policy, guidelines, or restrictions currently in place that may limit or regulate such borrowing. [19852/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 2547 to 2549, inclusive, together.
The traditional university sector and the technological sector operate under separate legislation.
Provisions regarding how a university may borrow by means of bank overdraft or otherwise and may guarantee or underwrite a loan taken or borrowing undertaken by any person, are set out in section 38 of the Universities Act 1997 and section 21 of the Technological Universities Act 2018.
A Borrowing Framework, under section 38 of the Universities Act 1997, is in place for the traditional university sector.
Rules regarding how a technological university may borrow are not currently in place. However, there are commitments in the Programme for Government to enable technological universities to borrow funds for initiatives like student accommodation.
For institutions, other than traditional universities, to borrow there would need to a consultation process with the HEA. This would necessitate the establishment of an appropriate framework setting out the criteria, financial and non-financial, including governance, oversight and reporting to define the operational process through which such consent would be sought and obtained. Having passed those primary screening tests, the prospective borrowing entity would then be required to pass the relevant tests, procedures and requirements of the Housing Finance Agency before accessing borrowing funds.
The impacts, risks and responsibilities arising from such borrowing are key considerations in this context. In addition to accessing borrowing on commercially viable and appropriate terms such as would not adversely impact the financial position of TUs themselves or the wider public finances, requisite oversight, risk evaluation, project management and attendant governance and regulatory processes would also need to be established.
The development of robust and adequate systems ensures that any proposed borrowing is rigorously examined to protect both Exchequer funding and HEIs themselves.
A new student accommodation strategy is in development following Government approval of the long-term policy last year. The strategy will include measures to increase the supply of student accommodation, reduce the cost of delivery through standardised design guidance and promote efficient use of existing building stock through refurbishment and an examination of vacancy, while supporting balanced regional development through a Technological University (TU) student accommodation programme.
The intention of the TU student accommodation programme is to assess proposals and potential opportunities to meet the future demand for accommodation. The programme, together with the ongoing standardised design study, will provide a framework of viable delivery models based on regional needs and feasibility assessments. Any potential funding options will be informed by this framework of delivery models and may require approval by Government.
2550. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his policy or strategic approach to enabling or supporting the delivery of student accommodation by higher education institutions; and whether any capital funding, borrowing flexibility or public private partnership models are under consideration to expand student housing supply. [19853/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe purpose of the new Student Accommodation Strategy is to eliminate accommodation cost and availability as barriers to accessing third-level education. One of the ways we will achieve this is by increasing the supply of accommodation through viability measures for Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).
For the first time, the State is investing in student accommodation to address the viability challenges currently faced in the sector. This investment represents a crucial step in tackling the ongoing shortage of student housing. By providing financial support, the State aims address the viability gap, enabling HEIs to develop and maintain accommodation. This investment not only helps alleviate immediate pressures but also sets the foundation for a more sustainable approach to student housing in the future, ensuring that HEIs can continue to support the growing student population.
Several accommodation delivery mechanisms are being explored for funding, including the construction of new PBSA, leasing arrangements for PBSA, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and refurbishment of vacant properties. These options aim to diversify the approaches to expanding student accommodation, ensuring flexibility and scalability to meet the growing demand.
The Technological University Accommodation Programme will prioritise regional balance and develop customised accommodation delivery models with the Sector. While the results of the Standardised Design Specifications Project will be key to establishing best practise and value for money for the State, ensuring affordability of additional supply for students.
2551. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the reason Technological University of the Shannon is not permitted to borrow for the purpose of developing student accommodation; and if there are plans to review borrowing restrictions to enable technological universities to support the delivery of on-campus housing. [19854/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra2552. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the policy or legislative basis for restricting technological universities, including the Technological University of the Shannon, from borrowing to fund the construction of student accommodation; and whether any such restriction is under review. [19855/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 2551 and 2552 together.
Provisions regarding how a university may borrow by means of bank overdraft or otherwise and may guarantee or underwrite a loan taken or borrowing undertaken by any person, are set out in section 38 of the Universities Act 1997 and section 21 of the Technological Universities Act 2018.
Rules regarding how a technological university may borrow are not currently in place. However, there are commitments in the Programme for Government to enable technological universities to borrow funds for initiatives like student accommodation.
For institutions, other than traditional universities, to borrow there would need to a consultation process with the HEA. This would necessitate the establishment of an appropriate framework setting out the criteria, financial and non-financial, including governance, oversight and reporting to define the operational process through which such consent would be sought and obtained. Having passed those primary screening tests, the prospective borrowing entity would then be required to pass the relevant tests, procedures and requirements of the Housing Finance Agency before accessing borrowing funds.
The impacts, risks and responsibilities arising from such borrowing are key considerations in this context. In addition to accessing borrowing on commercially viable and appropriate terms such as would not adversely impact the financial position of TUs themselves or the wider public finances, requisite oversight, risk evaluation, project management and attendant governance and regulatory processes would also need to be established.
The development of robust and adequate systems ensures that any proposed borrowing is rigorously examined to protect both Exchequer funding and HEIs themselves.
A new student accommodation strategy is in development following Government approval of the long-term policy last year. The strategy will include measures to increase the supply of student accommodation, reduce the cost of delivery through standardised design guidance and promote efficient use of existing building stock through refurbishment and an examination of vacancy, while supporting balanced regional development through a Technological University (TU) student accommodation programme.
The intention of the TU student accommodation programme is to assess proposals and potential opportunities to meet the future demand for accommodation, including for the Technological University of the Shannon. The programme, together with the ongoing standardised design study, will provide a framework of viable delivery models based on regional needs and feasibility assessments. Any potential funding options will be informed by this framework of delivery models and may require approval by Government.
2553. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if there have been any recent developments in the implementation of the borrowing policy for technological universities; if a timeline has been established for when technological universities will be permitted to access borrowing facilities; how this policy is expected to support capital investment and strategic development across the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19870/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraProvisions regarding how a university may borrow by means of bank overdraft or otherwise and may guarantee or underwrite a loan taken or borrowing undertaken by any person, are set out in section 38 of the Universities Act 1997 and section 21 of the Technological Universities Act 2018.
Rules regarding how a technological university may borrow are not currently in place. However, there are commitments in the Programme for Government to enable technological universities to borrow funds for initiatives like student accommodation.
For institutions, other than traditional universities, to borrow there would need to a consultation process with the HEA. This would necessitate the establishment of an appropriate framework setting out the criteria, financial and non-financial, including governance, oversight and reporting to define the operational process through which such consent would be sought and obtained. Having passed those primary screening tests, the prospective borrowing entity would then be required to pass the relevant tests, procedures and requirements of the Housing Finance Agency before accessing borrowing funds.
The impacts, risks and responsibilities arising from such borrowing are key considerations in this context. In addition to accessing borrowing on commercially viable and appropriate terms such as would not adversely impact the financial position of TUs themselves or the wider public finances, requisite oversight, risk evaluation, project management and attendant governance and regulatory processes would also need to be established.
The development of robust and adequate systems ensures that any proposed borrowing is rigorously examined to protect both Exchequer funding and HEIs themselves.
2555. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide a progress update on the implementation of financial supports for students undertaking unpaid or underfunded mandatory placements, as committed to in the programme for Government; if his Department has engaged with SUSI or the HEA to develop a targeted funding mechanism; when students can expect to benefit from such supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19872/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am conscious of the cost of placements and this area is subject to commitments in the programme for Government.
The issue of paid placement however is a matter for the relevant Department with responsibility for the related placements. Queries related to specific placements and financial supports should be addressed to the relevant Department in the first instance.
It is my intention to publish an Options Paper outlining measures to help reduce the cost of education for students and families across Further and Higher Education, Research and Apprenticeships.
This paper will set out various options for further enhancement of student supports for consideration as part of the budgetary process in the Autumn and this area will be examined in the context of this paper.
2556. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the level of capital investment in ATU Mayo, Castlebar campus since 2020; the capital projects funded at the campus over this period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19934/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAtlantic Technological University was formed on 01/04/2022 with the amalgamation of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Institute of Technology Sligo (IT Sligo), and Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT) with St Angela’s College joining more recently on 01/11/2023.
Funding of €2.08m was provided to support an upgrade of the roof and other building fabric at the Castlebar campus. This recognised the health and safety challenge posed by the roof condition and responded to a recommendation of the Working Group on Developing a Sustainable Plan for the Mayo Campus of the then Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology. This work was completed in late 2020.
In 2023, €1.1m was allocated under the Higher Education Apprenticeship Expansion Programme to support 12 electrical blocks being provided in ATU, Castlebar, Mayo.
Along with individual capital projects, ATU receives an annual Devolved Capital Grant which provides flexible capital funding to support small-scale building works (including health and safety works, access works, refurbishment, energy upgrades etc.) and equipment purchase or renewal, including ICT. In addition the institution was allocated funding under the Higher Education Research Equipment Grant (HEREG) in 2023 and in 2024 to purchase new or additional research equipment or complete research equipment upgrades. It is a matter for individual higher education institutions including ATU to determine what works are prioritised across the campuses under its remit.
For reference a table of funding at GMIT from 01/01/2020 – 31/03/2023 and ATU from 01/04/2022 to date is set out below.
TABLE OF SPEND AT GMIT AND ATU
Funding at GMIT (From 2020 – 31/03/2022)
|
Type of Funding |
2020 |
2021 |
|
Devolved Grant |
€1,725,000 |
€1,780,855 |
|
Apprenticeship |
€60,000 |
|
|
Infrastructure work at Castlebar Campus |
€790,917.27 |
|
|
ICT Covid 19 Grant |
€357,694 |
|
|
Apprenticeship |
€420,454 |
|
|
Site Acquisition |
€6,450,000 |
|
|
TOTAL |
€2,933,611.27 |
€8,651,309 |
Atlantic Technological University (Since 01/04/2022 - date)
|
Type of Funding |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Devolved Grant |
€3,979,631.00 |
€8,173,643.00 |
|
|
Apprenticeship 2021 Electrical Letterkenny |
€103,970.00 |
0 |
|
|
Apprenticeship 2021 Expansion Sligo |
€271,668.00 |
€91,319.00 |
|
|
Block K & L |
€5,356,004.00 |
€3,518,057.55 |
|
|
Central Campus Extension E01 |
€4,817,209.00 |
€193,566.00 |
|
|
Energy Efficiency Pilot LYIT Phase 1 Extension Retrofit (Ref 503031205) |
€852,472 |
0 |
|
|
BIC Biomass and Medium Upgrade Letterkenny (EEDPP 2021) |
€749,550 |
€231,743.24 |
|
|
Apprenticeship Expansion Project Galway |
|
€1,679,033.57 |
€240,966.43 |
|
Space Utilisation |
|
€70,000.00 |
|
|
Healthcare Places |
|
€649,160.00 |
|
|
Sligo Campus Block K Ex Gratia Payment |
€8,208.00 |
||
|
Research Equipment Grant 2023 |
€768,025.00 |
||
|
EEDPP 2021 – Galway – Creative Centre for Arts and Media |
€125,582.40 |
||
|
Extension to Central Campus EOI project Sligo Campus - Funding for mature ex gratia payments |
€383,732.00 |
||
|
EEDPP 2020 ATU Donegal Campus - Phase 1 - Extension Deep Retrofit Funding for mature ex gratia payments |
€1,012.78 |
||
|
EEDPP 2021 ATU Donegal Campus - BIC Medium Retrofit and Biomass - Funding for mature ex gratia payments |
€961.00 |
||
|
EEDPP 2023 Sligo Campus, Heating Decarbonisation and Energy Retrofit of Blocks G and P |
€2,670,615.00 |
||
|
Castlebar Roof and Fabric Upgrade - Ex gratia Payment |
€9,460.00 |
||
|
Apprenticeship 2023 - Donegal Refrigeration 3 blocks |
€27,859.20 |
||
|
Apprenticeship 2023 - Donegal Electrical 18 blocks |
€612,409.00 |
||
|
Apprenticeship 2023 - Sligo Electrical 12 blocks |
€599,534.00 |
||
|
Construction inflation exgratia payment Block L Sligo |
€649,644.00 |
||
|
H&S Works 2020/21- St Angela Campus |
€251,989.54 |
||
|
Total |
€16,130,504.86 |
€15,382,755.36 |
€5,573,765.35 |
2557. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the number of new courses, full-time and part-time, that have been added at ATU Mayo campus since 2020, as well as the number of courses, full-time and part-time, that have been discontinued in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19935/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by ATU that since 2020, 35 new programmes have been validated with nine programmes discontinued at ATU Mayo campus. Of the new programmes, 11 are full-time and 24 are part-time. The discontinued programmes, seven were full-time and two were part-time. A list of these programmes, including details regarding their delivery mode and course name, is broken out in the following table.
The Deputy should note that Technological Universities are autonomous institutions and consequently, the management of their day to day functions, including the introduction of new courses and academic disciplines, and whether they are offered on a part-time basis, are matters for the individual institution to determine in the context of their strategies, governance structures and policies.
It is a priority of my Department to increase access to higher education through flexible and diverse pathways. €2m of support was secured for part-time provision in Budget 2024. This marked the first time that supports were being made available for students studying on part-time courses under the Student Grant Scheme.
This year the number of courses included in the Scheme have nearly doubled, going from 62 in 2024 to 111 in 2025. It is my hope that this new initiative will encourage higher education institutions to offer more courses on a part-time basis, and provide educational opportunities to those for whom full-time education is not a suitable option.
Validations
|
Programme Title |
Delivery |
|
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Community Development and Youth Work |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Community Development and Youth Work |
Full-time |
|
Master of Arts in Transformative Practices in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion |
Full-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Transformative Practices in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion |
Full-time |
|
Postgraduate Certificate in Transformative Practices in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion |
Full-time |
|
Higher Certificate in Arts in Early Childhood Education and Care |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology |
Full-time |
|
Master of Science in Gerontology Nursing |
Full-time |
|
Master of Science in Gerontology Practice |
Full-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Gerontology Nursing |
Full-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Gerontology Practice |
Full-time |
|
Certificate in Community Development Practice |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Peer Support Practice |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Recovery in Mental Health |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Digital Mapping and Geographical Information Systems |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Outdoor Education, Sustainability and Well-being |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Sustainability Leadership |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Sustainability Leadership |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Applied Leadership and Management in Healthcare |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Applied Leadership and Management in the Public Sector |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Applied Leadership and Management in Social Care |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Applied Leadership and Management in Healthcare |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Applied Leadership and Management in the Public Sector |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Applied Leadership and Management in Social Care |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Leadership and Management |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Personal and Vocational Development |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Life Skills and Vocational Development |
Part-time |
|
Diploma in School Age Childcare |
Part-time |
|
Master of Science in Applied Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory Practice |
Part-time |
|
Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory Practice |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Building Digital Healthcare Communities |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Ageing, Health Assessment and Management in the Older Person |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Contemporary Approaches to Care of the Older Person |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Delirium, Dementia and Mental Health in the Older Person |
Part-time |
Removed
|
Programme Title |
Delivery |
|
Bachelor of Business (Honours) |
Full-time |
|
Higher Certificate in Business |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Business |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Business (Honours) |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Financial Management |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Business (Hons) in Accounting |
Full-time |
|
Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Building Technology |
Full-time |
|
Certificate in Greening Enterprise Skills |
Part-time |
|
Certificate in Managing Services |
Part-time |
2558. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his view on the application for a new apprenticeship focused on the community and voluntary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20060/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Apprenticeship Office (NAO) has responsibility for all aspects of the management, oversight and development of the apprenticeship system in Ireland. In this capacity the NAO in conjunction with the National Apprenticeship Alliance oversees applications by industry bodies for the creation of new apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are employer-led, and employers wishing to set up a new apprenticeship are required to provide the NAO with evidence of a substantial skills need within the sector that will be met by an apprenticeship. This should backed up by practical evidence of support from employers for the apprenticeship. In general, at least 15-20 employers should be on board.
The process to develop and deliver an apprenticeship can be found here: www.content.apprenticeship.ie/f/83224/x/46a5139d42/apprenticeshiphandbook_publicationjanuary2023.pdf
2559. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the details and the breakdown of the student intake into primary teaching colleges and university faculties of education for the years 2020 to 2024; the gender breakdown of both students in training and students graduating at primary level and post-primary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20066/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Section 49 of the Higher Education Act 2022 publicly funded Higher Education Institutions must provide statistics on student enrolments and graduates to the HEA in the form of an annual statistical return. The Statistics Unit of the Higher Education Authority is responsible for collecting, auditing and analysing these student data returns. Therefore the HEA has responsibility for collating data on student numbers.
The data you have requested has been provided to the Department by the HEA, and is set out below in tabular form. For the purposes of statistical confidentiality, all numbers are rounded to the nearest five.
For further details you can contact the HEA at oireachtas@hea.ie or statistics@hea.ie.
Primary Enrolments
|
Course Level |
HEI |
Gender |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Undergraduate |
Dublin City University |
Female |
1,420 |
1,410 |
1,440 |
1,435 |
1,450 |
|
|
|
Male |
295 |
290 |
265 |
245 |
250 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
- |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
|
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick |
Female |
1,430 |
1,480 |
1,470 |
1,470 |
1,505 |
|
|
|
Male |
385 |
370 |
350 |
320 |
310 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
- |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
|
Maynooth University |
Female |
225 |
250 |
250 |
250 |
275 |
|
|
|
Male |
40 |
40 |
40 |
35 |
35 |
|
|
Other |
|
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
|
Undergraduate Total |
3,795 |
3,845 |
3,820 |
3,765 |
3,840 |
||
|
Postgraduate |
Dublin City University |
Female |
115 |
105 |
105 |
110 |
90 |
|
|
|
Male |
20 |
30 |
35 |
35 |
40 |
|
|
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick |
Female |
130 |
125 |
110 |
95 |
110 |
|
|
|
Male |
20 |
25 |
25 |
30 |
35 |
|
|
Maynooth University |
Female |
60 |
60 |
55 |
55 |
60 |
|
|
Male |
5 |
10 |
10 |
10 |
15 |
|
|
Postgraduate Total |
350 |
350 |
335 |
330 |
355 |
||
|
Grand Total |
4,150 |
4,200 |
4,155 |
4,100 |
4,190 |
Post-primary Enrolments
|
Course Level |
HEI |
Gender |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Undergraduate |
Atlantic Technological University |
Female |
5 |
10 |
30 |
45 |
60 |
|
|
|
Male |
70 |
95 |
105 |
110 |
125 |
|
|
Dublin City University |
Female |
305 |
325 |
330 |
345 |
355 |
|
|
|
Male |
210 |
230 |
270 |
255 |
275 |
|
|
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick |
Female |
245 |
285 |
300 |
325 |
365 |
|
|
|
Male |
100 |
120 |
135 |
150 |
160 |
|
|
Maynooth University |
Female |
120 |
135 |
140 |
130 |
125 |
|
|
|
Male |
60 |
65 |
65 |
80 |
75 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
- |
- |
- |
|
|
National College of Art and Design |
Female |
100 |
100 |
105 |
110 |
110 |
|
|
|
Male |
15 |
20 |
15 |
15 |
10 |
|
|
|
Other |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
|
St. Angela's College of Home Economics, Sligo |
Female |
375 |
440 |
490 |
430 |
365 |
|
|
|
Male |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
10 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
- |
|
|
|
|
|
Trinity College Dublin |
Female |
30 |
40 |
40 |
35 |
35 |
|
|
|
Male |
10 |
5 |
10 |
5 |
5 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
- |
|
|
University College Cork |
Female |
65 |
70 |
70 |
75 |
85 |
|
|
|
Male |
25 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
- |
|
|
University College Dublin |
Female |
15 |
15 |
10 |
10 |
50 |
|
|
|
Male |
5 |
10 |
15 |
5 |
20 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
- |
- |
- |
|
|
University of Galway |
Female |
30 |
40 |
45 |
50 |
45 |
|
|
Male |
25 |
40 |
45 |
50 |
40 |
|
|
Undergraduate Total |
1,820 |
2,070 |
2,245 |
2,265 |
2,350 |
||
|
Postgraduate |
Dublin City University |
Female |
255 |
275 |
300 |
310 |
285 |
|
|
|
Male |
85 |
100 |
125 |
155 |
150 |
|
|
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick |
Female |
|
|
55 |
100 |
110 |
|
|
|
Male |
|
|
15 |
30 |
35 |
|
|
Maynooth University |
Female |
175 |
175 |
155 |
160 |
160 |
|
|
|
Male |
90 |
85 |
80 |
85 |
90 |
|
|
National College of Art and Design |
Female |
30 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
25 |
|
|
|
Male |
5 |
- |
- |
5 |
5 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
- |
|
|
St. Angela's College of Home Economics, Sligo |
Female |
70 |
75 |
85 |
105 |
115 |
|
|
|
Male |
|
- |
5 |
- |
- |
|
|
Trinity College Dublin |
Female |
100 |
100 |
105 |
85 |
75 |
|
|
|
Male |
45 |
50 |
45 |
40 |
45 |
|
|
University College Cork |
Female |
175 |
185 |
180 |
150 |
155 |
|
|
|
Male |
70 |
65 |
75 |
85 |
85 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
- |
|
|
University College Dublin |
Female |
125 |
125 |
155 |
150 |
140 |
|
|
|
Male |
105 |
105 |
100 |
95 |
95 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
- |
|
|
University of Galway |
Female |
180 |
215 |
205 |
175 |
190 |
|
|
|
Male |
100 |
100 |
110 |
105 |
85 |
|
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
- |
- |
|
|
University of Limerick |
Female |
35 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Male |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postgraduate Total |
1,660 |
1,695 |
1,835 |
1,865 |
1,855 |
2560. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the average CAO points requirement for primary school teaching in the years 2020 to 20204, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20068/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Applications Office (CAO), an independent registered not-for-profit company, is responsible for processing applications for undergraduate courses in Irish Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Decisions on admissions to undergraduate courses are made by the Higher Education Institutes who instruct the CAO to make offers to successful candidates based on the number of points they achieved from their Leaving Certificate grades.
The CAO points for any given course are not an entry requirement set by a HEI, but rather are determined by the number of places on the course, the number of applications for the course, and the grades received by those applicants.
Applicants for Primary Initial Teacher Education undergraduate courses must meet specified entry requirements in Irish, English, and Maths. Students must achieve a minimum of a H4 in Irish, and a O4/H7 in English and Maths in the Leaving Certificate.
The CAO points required for entry onto primary teaching courses from 2020-2024 is set out in tabular form.
|
Course Code |
Institution |
Name |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
CM001 |
Marino Institute of Education |
Education - Primary Teaching |
484* |
508 |
496 |
477 |
473 |
|
CM002 |
Marino Institute of Education |
Education - Primary Teaching - Gaeltacht Applicants# |
N/A |
462 |
462 |
451 |
455 |
|
CM003 |
Marino Institute of Education |
Oideachas - Bunmhúinteoireacht Trí Mheán na Gaeilge (TEG)# |
528 |
513 |
535 |
462 |
507 |
|
CM004 |
Marino Institute of Education |
Oideachas - Bunmhúinteoireacht Trí Mheán na Gaeilge (daltaí Gaeltachta, TEG) # |
494 |
480 |
514 |
459 |
471 |
|
DC002 |
Dublin City University |
Education - Primary Teaching |
488 |
518 |
506 |
487 |
480 |
|
DC003 |
Dublin City University |
Education - Primary Teaching - Gaeltacht Applicants # |
445 |
496 |
478 |
453 |
410 |
|
DC004 |
Dublin City University |
Education - Primary Teaching (Church of Ireland) # |
409 |
451 |
426 |
401 |
402 |
|
DC005 |
Dublin City University |
Education - Primary Teaching - ISL Pathway # |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
348 |
|
MH001 |
Maynooth University |
Education - Primary Teaching |
507 |
556 |
540 |
498 |
507 |
|
MH002 |
Maynooth University |
Education - Primary Teaching - Gaeltacht Applicants# |
N/A |
N/A |
543 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
MI004 |
Mary Immaculate College |
Education - Primary Teaching - International |
577 |
589 |
576 |
558 |
565 |
|
MI005 |
Mary Immaculate College |
Education - Primary Teaching |
495 |
522 |
509 |
497 |
488 |
|
MI006 |
Mary Immaculate College |
Education - Primary Teaching - Gaeltacht Applicants# |
462 |
485 |
473 |
463 |
451 |
|
MI008 |
Mary Immaculate College |
Education and Psychology - Primary Teaching |
588 |
590 |
601 |
577 |
590 |
*Not all applicants on this points score were offered places
#Supplementary Entry Criteria required as well as Leaving Certificate
2561. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide an update on his plans to review the financial supports available for the 1,255 third level students from Ukraine studying in Ireland; for an update on tuition fees being paid by his Department through the temporary tuition fee support scheme, which was implemented at the beginning of the war in Ukraine (details supplied); if he will be reviewing this payment, given how Irish students are means tested and struggle to financially get by during their studies, with many dropping out due to the stress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20097/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm to the Deputy that a review of supports for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection has now been completed and approved by Government.
These revised arrangements are better aligned with existing schemes of support which are available to Irish and other EU citizens, such as the Free Fees Scheme and the Student Grant Scheme administered by SUSI.
Supports for entrants to a new course whose initial Temporary Protection was granted more than three years before the start of the 2025/26 Academic year will be via the Free Fees Scheme and/or the Student Grant Scheme. Prospective students must meet the relevant eligibility criteria of those schemes to avail of supports.
However, in recognition of the fact that a proportion of Leaving Certificate students currently preparing for their examinations, and certain other students in equivalent circumstances, will not meet criteria to avail of existing State schemes, temporary supports will continue to be available for relevant cohorts for the 2025/26 academic year.
Those who are continuing with a further or higher education course in September 2025, having started in a previous academic year, will receive modified levels of financial support better aligned with Irish students.
Applicants starting a new course from the 2026/27 Academic Year onwards will need to meet the eligibility requirements of existing State schemes, such as SUSI and the Free Fees scheme, to avail of supports. This is the same position which pertains to Irish and other EU nationals.
Decisions on temporary supports for existing students continuing their course in the 2026/27 academic year will be made in light of any review of Section 60 permission status which will expire in March 2026.
Full details of revised supports have been published in a Technical Notice on the Gov.ie website at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-further-and-higher-education-research-innovation-and-science/publications/supports-to-beneficiaries-of-temporary-protection-for-academic-year-2025-2026/.
2562. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the costs towards the temporary tuition fee support scheme for 2025 (details supplied); the length of time his Department will be paying for this temporary scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20182/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra2563. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of Ukrainian students on the temporary tuition fee support scheme for 2025 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20183/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 2562 and 2563 together.
As part of the emergency response to support persons from Ukraine, a Temporary Tuition Fee Support Scheme was introduced in 2022. The temporary support has assisted Ukrainian Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) to undertake undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Final numbers and costs for the 2024/25 academic year will be confirmed at the end of the academic year. Current estimates indicate that 1,275 Ukrainian students will avail of the scheme at an estimated cost of circa €5.9 million.
Supports to students, including temporary supports, are reviewed annually. In this regard, I have recently published details of the Further and Higher Education supports that will apply from the start of the 2025/26 academic year for BOTPs.
