Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2026
987. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he has taken any actions in response to the repeated call in August 2025 by an organisation (details supplied) for a cap on the number of international students studying dentistry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17010/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is committed to increasing healthcare training places, including dentistry, in line with commitments in the programme for Government.
In consultation with the Department of Health, which has advised that dentistry is an area requiring additional supply of graduates, we are working to expand opportunities for Irish students, particularly given the demand for oral healthcare and the need to reduce waiting lists for dental treatment.
It is important to note that Higher Education Institutions are autonomous under the relevant legislation and manage their own administrative and academic affairs, including their enrolment policies.
My Department is actively engaging with UCC and the Department of Health on a proposal to establish a dental outreach centre in North Cork. This initiative would enable training additional undergraduate dental students each year, and my officials are engaging with UCC with a view to maximising the number of Irish and EU students this could support. It also supports a community-based model of education, giving students earlier clinical exposure in primary care settings, which enhances readiness for practice.
These developments complement the new Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland which commenced this September with 20 places for EU students. The intake in this programme will increase to 35 by 2027.
We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to maximise the number of dental training places available to Irish and EU students, and to ensure sustainable expansion of dental education to meet workforce needs. This approach aligns with the Smile agus Sláinte oral health policy and our broader commitment to a modern, accessible health system.
