Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (153)

Ken O'Flynn

Ceist:

153. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science given the Programme for Government commits to phasing out the student contribution fee over the lifetime of this Dáil, and Budget 2026 delivered a permanent €500 reduction but due to it replacing the previous temporary €1,000 cut, students are actually paying €500 more this year than last year, if he will set out a clear, costed timeline for meeting the Programme for Government commitment to progressively reduce and ultimately abolish the student contribution fee; and to confirm that no future Budget will again leave students worse off than the year before. [34715/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Programme for Government (PfG) addresses the cost of college in a balanced way by combining both universal and targeted measures. The PFG commits to incrementally reducing student contribution fees as well as increasing SUSI grants, providing additional supports for specific cohorts, as well as providing more pathways into and through higher education. The PFG explicitly states that this must be done in a financially sustainable manner.

The Programme for Government contains several commitments which are intended to reduce the financial burden on students and families. One of these commitments is to reduce the Student Contribution Fee over the lifetime of the Government in a financially sustainable manner.

In my first budget as Minister for Higher Education, I have delivered on this commitment. I have reduced the student contribution by €500, and I have done so in a manner that is financially sustainable. This flat rate reduction has reduced the student contribution fee from €3,000 to €2,500; the first permanent reduction since the Free Fees Initiative was introduced in 1995.

Previous temporary measures, whilst providing welcome relief for students and their families, remained uncertain from year to year. By implementing a permanent reduction, I have provided certainty for students on the student contribution for those who pay it. In this regard, it is important to also note that tens of thousands of students have their student contribution paid in full or part by SUSI, with over 65,000 students receiving supports last year.

In looking at future options to improve the student support framework, I must have regard to the Government’s overall expenditure management and budgetary policy. Whilst the recent Government decision to levy Departments to cover expenditure pressures in the Department of Education may limit the options available to me in this year’s budget, it won't diminish my resolve to deliver for students and their families.

While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in Budget 2027 or subsequent budgets, I can assure the Deputy that options to reduce the cost of education for students and their families, will remain a primary objective for me.

Questions Nos. 154 to 164, inclusive, answered orally.

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (165)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

165. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science whether reporting (details supplied) that a budget overrun in another Department will have to be recouped through an increase in student fees is accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34607/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

As part of Budget 2026, I announced a permanent €500 reduction in the student contribution fee. This reduced the student contribution rate from €3,000 to €2,500 for Free Fees Initiative eligible students not availing of student contribution supports through SUSI.

Apprentices attending Higher Education have also benefited from a pro-rata reduction in their student contribution charge.

These are permanent reductions that have been fully implemented with effect from the current academic year. While they come at a signification cost of over €50m, they are nevertheless important measures that will reduce the cost of education for students and their families.

The recent Government decision to levy departments to cover expenditure pressures in other Departments may limit the options for new measures, involving policy initiatives or supports, in Budget 2027. Notwithstanding this, I will again pursue options that are equitable, funded, fair, and that build upon the permanent improvements that were made for the 2025/26 academic year. I will continue to engage with students and stakeholders to identify what are the key measures that can be implemented to reduce the cost of education, building on the discussions I had with students at the recent cost of education event in Portlaoise.

I will also engage with my Cabinet colleagues, to ensure that I have the necessary support to implement further improvements to the student support framework.

While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.

Third Level Costs

Ceisteanna (166)

Barry Ward

Ceist:

166. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his views on the merits of creating a student finance model that would provide interest free loans to students that do not qualify for SUSI grants, to support the associated costs of attending third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34393/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

I recognise the importance of and am committed to reducing barriers to participation in higher education. In that context, it is important to recall that the question of student loans was examined in detail as part of the Review of the Funding Allocation Model for Higher Education (the Cassells Report). Following that review, the decision of the Government was not to introduce an income-contingent loan scheme, but instead to prioritise a mixed funding model through enhanced Exchequer investment, employer contributions through the NTF and a reduced reliance on student contributions, which I am committed to delivering on through the Programme for Government.

In addition I have delivered on increasing targeted student supports, in particular through the SUSI grant system. I have requested my officials to examine a range of options in relation to student fee supports to minimise barriers to participation in higher education. Improvements to the student grant scheme has been a priority for me and this Department and we have made many improvements benefitting thousands of students. Budget 2025 enabled me to increase all income threshold limits and I was delighted in Budget 2026 to increase all non-adjacent maintenance grants.

I fully recognise the significant financial pressures facing students, particularly those on Graduate Entry Medicine programmes, and the importance of ensuring that finance is not a barrier to accessing third-level education.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce tuition fee supports for Graduate Entry Medicine. I have tasked my officials to work closely with colleagues in the Department of Health to progress this commitment in a constructive and practical way, with a focus on affordability, sustainability and the long-term medical workforce needs of the State.

It is important to note that substantial State support is already provided for Graduate Entry Medicine. The Exchequer part-subsidises tuition fees for GEM places across all institutions, and recent Budget measures have significantly increased the value of this subsidy - rising from €11,950 per student in 2021/22 to €16,930 for all graduate entrants from 2026, representing approximately €13 million in annual public funding. This significantly reduces the costs faced by students, with the remaining fee levels determined by higher education institutions.

In addition, GEM students may access a range of existing supports, including the Student Assistance Fund, National Access Plan bursaries, tax relief on fees and rent, the Fund for Students with Disabilities where eligible, and the continued availability of the 1916 Bursary for eligible students progressing to GEM.

I have asked my officials to examine a range of potential future support models, including financial and incentive-based approaches, such as State-backed loans, as part of cross-Government work. This includes considering how any further measures might support both affordability and the retention of graduates within the Irish public health system. No decisions have yet been taken, and any proposal would require careful consideration and budgetary approval.

Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence

Ceisteanna (167)

Ruth Coppinger

Ceist:

167. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to report on his engagement with HEIs in relation to the Ending Sexual Violence and Harassment Framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34398/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The safety and wellbeing of every student in higher education is a fundamental priority for the Government, for my Department, and for me personally.

I am acutely conscious of the importance of every individual student on our campus feeling safe and I am committed to ensuring that the environment is one where every individual feels safe and respected and free from the threat of harm, most especially sexual violence and harassment.

No student should experience sexual violence or harassment in their place of study, accommodation, or anywhere on campus. Everyone should be able to study in a safe, respectful and supportive environment.

The Programme for Government is very clear that tackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a major national priority. I know that the Higher Education Authority has considerable expertise in this area and my Department provides key supports in the form of funding support and coordination on implementation. In that context, my Department works closely with the HEA and is supportive of their work, including the work of the HEA Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, who work with higher education institutions across the sector to ensure that a culture of respect and safety is nurtured.

The HEA leads the sector’s response through the Ending Sexual Violence and Harassment Framework, which was introduced in 2019. That Framework sets out clear expectations for institutions in relation to campus culture, policies, reporting procedures, prevention initiatives, and supports for students and staff.

While higher education institutions are autonomous bodies, my Department and the HEA continue to engage extensively with them regarding policies and supports for students who have experienced sexual violence or harassment, including measures to support students in continuing their studies safely and appropriately.

Important initiatives supported by my Department include the Speak Out anonymous reporting tool, the Active* Consent programme, the Bystander Intervention initiative, and 16 dedicated Sexual Violence and Harassment Prevention and Response Manager posts across the sector.

In addition, the HEA is currently progressing a revised Framework following an expert review published in 2025, informed by extensive engagement with students, staff representatives, institutions and stakeholders across the sector.

Student Accommodation

Ceisteanna (168)

Michael Cahill

Ceist:

168. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to give favourable consideration to index linking SUSI maintenance grants in line with rising accommodation costs and the cost of living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34844/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

I am conscious of the challenges facing students with the rising cost of education, including the cost and availability of student accommodation.

I have consistently outlined my commitment to improving student supports in a way that is equitable, funded and fair, and provides certainty for families.

Budget 2026 offered me my first opportunity to make real and permanent changes in support of students, which included the first ever permanent reduction in the Student Contribution fee of €500.

For students whose normal residence is 30km or more from their institution and to help with rent and travel costs, all non-adjacent maintenance grant rates will increase by at least €200 effective from September 2026 with a pro-rata benefit for students this academic year.

The new Student Accommodation Strategy sets out Ireland’s national policy to support access to appropriate housing for students. Under this Strategy, I am committed to further expanding and enhancing supports that directly address the affordability pressures facing students, especially for those who need it most.

I also provided €19.3 million for the Student Assistance Fund, a fund that helps assist students financially with everyday costs, including rent and travel costs.

Just last week the government announced a new package of fuel supports which will also benefit students who are travelling to and from college.

The Department is working with the ESRI on integrating student support award criteria into the SWITCH model to inform future policy decisions on student supports.

I will publish, in the autumn, this year's Annual Options Paper which will help inform decision making ahead of Budget 2027. It is important to note however, that any amendments or extension to the student grant scheme, including indexing, has financial implications and are considered in the context of overall budgetary constraints and the substantial number of competing demands on available funding.

Further and Higher Education

Ceisteanna (169)

Naoise Ó Cearúil

Ceist:

169. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will review the application of SUSI's "equivalent or lower qualification" rule in cases where a Level 9 psychology conversion programme serves as an alternative to an undergraduate psychology degree, resulting in students being ineligible for support for the next required stage of training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34846/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

Under the terms of the Student Grant Scheme, which is administered by the centralised national grant awarding authority SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) on behalf of my Department, grant assistance is awarded to students attending an approved course in an approved institution who meet the prescribed conditions of funding, including those relating to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means.

The funding available to a student can vary depending on a variety of factors including the type of course and the student's access route including previous education.

To satisfy the current terms and conditions of the Student Grant Scheme, a student must be progressing in their studies.

In general, under the progression/previous academic attainment criteria of the Student Grant Scheme, students cannot qualify for grant assistance or free tuition fees for a second period of study at the same level or for a different course at the same level, irrespective of whether or not a grant or tuition fees were paid previously.

The main objective of this policy is to assist as many students as possible to obtain one qualification at each level of study.

In line with the rules of progression in the 2026 Student Grant Scheme there is no provision to award a grant to a student who is pursuing a level 9 course who already holds an award at Level 9 of the framework of qualifications, or equivalent.

The Deputy will appreciate that the Scheme operates in the context of competing educational priorities and limited public funding, however, the provision of accessible, affordable, high quality tertiary education to all learners, regardless of their background will continue to be a core priority for me and for this Government.

Artificial Intelligence

Ceisteanna (170)

Malcolm Byrne

Ceist:

170. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline future plans for aiready.ie and for upskilling programmes in artificial intelligence. [34391/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

I launched the AIready.ie platform last month as part of my broader ambition to upskill one million people in Artificial Intelligence and to strengthen our national response to identified AI and digital skills needs. The platform was developed by SOLAS, following advice from the National Skills Council.

The first phase of the initiative is centred on building foundational AI literacy and practical digital capabilities. It offers an accessible, flexible entry point for individuals to develop a basic understanding of Artificial Intelligence and to begin applying it in their everyday personal and professional lives. By focusing on practical, real-world tasks, the platform is designed to demystify AI and support users in developing confidence in its use.

A core objective of this initiative is to position Artificial Intelligence as a helpful and empowering tool for everyone. By fostering familiarity and practical engagement, we can support people to use AI in a way that enhances productivity, creativity, and lifelong learning.

I have directed my officials to advance planning for future phases of the platform. These will expand the range of user profiles supported and provide more specialised learning opportunities tailored to specific sectors and skill levels.

In addition to AIready.ie, a broad range of further upskilling opportunities in Artificial Intelligence is already available. This includes a suite of AI micro-qualifications at Levels 4 to 6 delivered by SOLAS through the Skills to Advance initiative. These free courses are offered through the 16 Education and Training Boards nationwide, providing targeted training in areas such as machine learning fundamentals, ethical AI, data analysis, and practical, business-relevant applications.

Higher education institutions continue to deliver a wide range of specialist and foundational digital skills programmes, including micro-credentials, through initiatives such as Springboard+.

Further and Higher Education

Ceisteanna (171)

Naoise Ó Muirí

Ceist:

171. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will outline the work his Department is doing to encourage careers in the ORE sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34808/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

My Department is leading a multi-faceted approach to build the skills base needed for a successful Offshore Renewable Energy Sector.

The Offshore Wind Skills Action Plan published in 2024 identified skills shortages in 33 roles required for the development of offshore wind and the measures to address these.

To actively drive this Plan forward and encourage careers in this sector, my Department has established an Expert Advisory Group comprising industry and tertiary sector representatives to advise on these needs.

Working with this group and with ongoing input from the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and Enterprise Ireland, my department is progressing the development of a National Skills Hub for Offshore Wind.

Its first phase, an Online Career Pathway Platform is due for delivery at the end of this year and will focus on making career routes and the skills needed clearer for both industry and individual workers. Additionally, the Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy facilitates professional mobility through flexible upskilling and micro-credentials.

With Education and Training Boards Ireland and Minister Lawless, I launched the Offshore Renewable Energy Career Chart as part of the FET Skills Box on the 5th May. With a potential to reach approximately 500,000 students, it highlights diverse training routes into the sector.

International collaboration is key. Through the Scottish-Irish Offshore Wind Internship Pilot, ten students from Irish tertiary education institutions will partake in a 12-week paid placement in Scotland in Summer 2026, offering hands-on experience in offshore wind supply chain companies which will foster a future-ready workforce.

These initiatives are essential for transforming Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy resources into a sustainable industry. By making career pathways accessible and providing targeted training, we are ensuring our workforce is equipped to lead the transition toward energy security and a zero-carbon future.

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (172)

Cathy Bennett

Ceist:

172. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will outline the cost of third level fees in each of the years 2024, 2025, 2026; if he intends to reduce fees; and the timeframe in which such will be delivered. [34826/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Programme for Government (PfG) addresses the cost of college in a balanced way by combining both universal and targeted measures. The PfG commits to incrementally reducing student contribution fees as well as increasing SUSI grants, providing additional supports for specific cohorts, as well as providing more pathways into and through higher education. The PfG explicitly states that this must be done in a financially sustainable manner.

In considering the matters raised, I am conscious that the Deputy has raised similar queries with me in recent weeks. In my responses I highlighted how the institutions themselves have responsibility for maintaining their overall tuition fee rates and that fee schedules are available from the institutions.

In that context I will expand upon funding supports for students and in particular the Free Fees Initiative. As the Deputy is aware, first-time students undertaking a full-time undergraduate course may be eligible to have their tuition fees, exclusive of the student contribution, paid on their behalf via the Free Fees Initiative.

In 2024/25, the cost of administering the Free Fees Initiative and related student supports was €628m. This can be broken down as follows:

• Free fees funding to higher education institutions (€380.2 million),

• SUSI student contribution grants at the temporary reduced rates (€101.2 million), and

• A temporary cost-of-living reduction of €1,000, which was applied to the then student contribution charge of €3,000 (€147.1 million).

The Programme for Government commits to reducing the student contribution fee in a financially sustainable manner over the lifetime of this Government. As part of Budget 2026 I delivered an immediate and permanent reduction of €500 to the Student Contribution fee paid by students. This flat rate reduction has reduced the fee from €3,000 to €2,500 in the current academic year. It is the first permanent reduction since the Free Fees Initiative was introduced in 1995.

Cost-of-Living measures in Budgets 2023, 2024 and 2025 provided for temporary student contribution reductions that reduced the €3,000 student contribution down to €2,000 in the academic years 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25.

These represented once off temporary interventions which were subject to supplementary funding each Budget in the form of a cost-of-living package. Previous temporary measures, whilst providing welcome relief for students and their families, remained uncertain from year to year. By implementing a permanent reduction, I have provided certainty for students on the student contribution for those who pay it.

The student contribution sits within the overall student support framework and as part of the annual budget process. While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that, subject to available resources, options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.

Student Accommodation

Ceisteanna (173)

Michael Cahill

Ceist:

173. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to expand the eligibility of the student accommodation assistance scheme to include renter students who fall outside SUSI eligibility and experience financial hardship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34845/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

Since its introduction in 2024 the Student Accommodation Assistance Scheme provides targeted financial support to Traveller, Roma and care-experienced students who face significant barriers in securing stable accommodation while in higher education.

During the 2024/25 academic year, €412,000 was allocated from Dormant Accounts Funding, supporting 85 students, including 64 from Traveller or Roma communities and 21 with experience of the care system.

During the 2025/26 academic year, €743,000 was allocated from Dormant Accounts Funding, supporting 142 students, including 95 from Traveller or Roma communities and 47 with experience of the care system.

Based on the success of the pilot, the recently launched Student Accommodation Strategy plans to develop a permanent accommodation bursary for these cohorts over the course of the strategy. The scheme is part of a wider commitment to removing accommodation-related barriers and improving equitable access to higher education in line with the National Access Plan.

In terms of supporting students who fall outside of SUSI eligibility criteria I was delighted to be in a position this year to make the first permanent reduction to the Student Contribution Charge which is expected to benefit 108,000 students. In addition, I have increased the threshold to avail of a Student Contribution Grant to €120,000. This is the highest it has ever been. This is alongside the rent tax credit, which offers up to €2,000 per year for eligible jointly assessed couples or €1,000 for eligible single applicants.

The Student Assistance Fund supports students facing financial hardship. In 2023/24, it assisted over 22,000 students with more than €19m. The SAF is designed to provide a source of financial support in addition to a student grant. I would encourage any student in financial difficulty to contact the student services office within their college to explore what supports may be available.

Apprenticeship Programmes

Ceisteanna (174)

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

174. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if will review and engage with stakeholders in relation to apprentice wages given the current cost of living crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34345/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Apprenticeships are a contract of employment. Wages are set and paid by the apprentice’s employer, subject to any applicable industrial relations agreements. Neither SOLAS nor my Department has any role in determining apprentice wage levels.

The Deputy may be aware that apprentices are exempt from minimum wage legislation. This exemption, which falls under the remit of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, reflects the fact that apprentices are engaged in training contracts, during which their skills and competencies develop over time. This is evident in the structure of craft apprenticeship wage rates, which are primarily established through collective bargaining agreements and which increase progressively over the four years of training.

The issue of apprentice wages is complex. I understand that lower wages may present a barrier to entry for some individuals. At the same time, increasing apprentice pay may some discourage some employers from taking on apprentices, given the costs associated with training.

My Department supports apprentices financially through a range of measures, including craft training allowances, travel and accommodation supports, and targeted bursaries for underrepresented groups.

The Government has set a target to grow apprenticeship registrations from 9,400 in 2025 to 12,500 in 2030 with two thirds in craft and construction, supporting national infrastructure delivery. Any change to financial supports for apprentices, including wage rates, would need to be considered in the context of the potential impact that it may have on the national uptake of apprenticeships, a factor of employer demand and apprentice interest, as well as the availability of resources.

Ensuring apprentices and employers remain incentivised will be central to the next Apprenticeship Action Plan which will be published later this year.

Apprenticeship Programmes

Ceisteanna (175)

Barry Heneghan

Ceist:

175. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the current number of registered apprentices by apprenticeship programme in north Dublin; the measures being taken by his Department, SOLAS and the education and training boards to expand apprenticeship opportunities and employer participation in north Dublin; the number of apprenticeship places expected to become available in the region over the next three years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34812/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

I welcome the Deputy's question on this, only this morning we were in the Deputy’s constituency in Maryfield College launching Women Shaking up the Future: Facts, Faces, Futures campaign, which focuses on promoting apprenticeship pathways to young women and increasing female participation in apprenticeships. Apprenticeships today are modern, flexible and highly valued pathways that allow people to earn while they learn and to build strong, long-term careers. They are not a second option, they are a first-choice route into the future.

We now have 82 apprenticeships and growing, covering everything from plumbing and engineering to ICT, healthcare, finance and beyond. More women than ever are choosing this path - I’m delighted to say female participation in apprenticeships is on the rise. This growth demonstrates broader systemic change, as more employers adopt inclusive recruitment approaches and recognise apprenticeships as a powerful way to find and develop talent. The Department and I are committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities nationally, supported by a €79 million investment in Budget 2026, and to meeting the Government target of 12,500 new apprenticeship registrations annually by 2030.

Of the 31,000 apprentices nationally, 7,789 are registered in Dublin: 3,407 with City of Dublin ETB and 4,382 with Dublin and Dún Laoghaire ETB. Apprentices are registered based on their employer’s nearest ETB rather than by local region, therefore, the requested information for north Dublin is not available.

Measures to support employer participation include a €2,000 annual employer grant for consortia-led apprenticeships, State-funded off-the-job training for craft apprenticeships, a €2,000 grant under the Traveller Apprentice Incentivisation Programme, a €2,666 gender bursary, and supports through the One More Job initiative.

My department will launch the next Action Plan for Apprenticeship later this year, which will consider how to grow apprenticeship and other work based learning opportunities, and how best to incentivise employer participation.

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (176)

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

176. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he is planning to abolish college fees this year in light of the worsening affordability crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34807/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Programme for Government (PfG) addresses the cost of college in a balanced way by combining both universal and targeted measures. The PFG commits to incrementally reducing student contribution fees as well as increasing SUSI grants, providing additional supports for specific cohorts, as well as providing more pathways into and through higher education. The PFG explicitly states that this must be done in a financially sustainable manner.

I am acutely aware of the financial challenges facing students and the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address costs as a barrier to education.

Budget 2026 was my first opportunity since taking up office to deliver on this commitment. I implemented a permanent reduction of €500 to the Student Contribution fee paid by students. This flat rate reduction has reduced the fee from €3,000 to €2,500 in the current academic year. It is the first permanent reduction since the Free Fees Initiative was introduced in 1995.

As I look ahead to the next Budget it is a priority for me to examine all options available to improve supports to students. While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next budget, I am conscious that sustainable improvements will need to be funded from permanent recurrent measures in the expenditure base.

In this context, I am also conscious that the recent Government decision to levy departments to cover expenditure pressures in other Departments, may limit the scope for new measures that I can bring forward as part of Budget 2027. Notwithstanding this, I will again pursue options that are equitable, funded, fair, and that build upon the permanent improvements that were made for the 2025/26 academic year.

I have engaged with students and key stakeholders at a recent cost of education event in Portlaoise and I will continue to engage with them in the coming weeks and months leading up to the budget in October. These discussions help to identify what are the key measures that can be implemented to reduce the cost of education for students and their families.

Third Level Fees

Ceisteanna (177)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

177. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if the proposed €500 cut to student fees will take place in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34606/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Programme for Government (PfG) addresses the cost of college in a balanced way by combining both universal and targeted measures. The PfG commits to incrementally reducing student contribution fees as well as increasing SUSI grants, providing additional supports for specific cohorts, as well as providing more pathways into and through higher education. The PfG states that this must be done in a financially sustainable manner.

On the student contribution fee, the PfG commits to: “Continue to reduce the Student Contribution Fee over the lifetime of the Government to ease the financial burden on students and families at the start of each academic year, in a financially sustainable manner.”

I have commenced the process of delivering on this commitment in Budget 2026 by announcing a permanent reduction in the student contribution fee of €500. This measure has reduced the student contribution rate from €3,000 to €2,500 in the current academic year. Students attending higher education this September will continue to benefit from this permanent reduction.

Separately, I am raising the income threshold to avail of a €500 student contribution grant from €115,000 to €120,000 for the next academic year so that more families can avail of supports towards meeting what is already a reduced student contribution charge.

As the Deputy will be aware, the student contribution sits within the wider student support framework. As I look towards Budget 2027, it is my intention to examine new measures that will build upon the permanent improvements to the student support framework that were made for the 2025/26 academic year.

The recent Government Decision to levy departments to cover expenditure pressures in other departments may necessitate limitations on new measures that can be brought forward in Budget 2027. Therefore, it will be important to develop evidence-based policy options to inform decision making.

To support this process, I will publish an options paper on the cost of education prior to the budget. This will identify costs and the potential impacts of measures that could be taken. The paper will be published without prejudice to Government decisions that will be taken in Budget 2027.

While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in Budget 2027, I can assure the Deputy that I will consider all options available to me to improve the overall student support framework.

Apprenticeship Programmes

Ceisteanna (178)

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

178. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if his Department is giving consideration to a reduction in fees or support grant to assist apprentices who pay a pro-rata registration fee (student contribution), if their off-the-job training takes place within an institute of technology or technological university. [34349/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

I am conscious of the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address financial challenges facing learners. It is a priority for my Department to explore the most effective and sustainable ways to support learners in managing these challenges.

It is important to note that there are no fees for undertaking a national apprenticeship programme. However, a student contribution fee is paid by apprentices when attending Higher Education Institutions, with the fee rate aligned to the student contribution payable by undergraduate students eligible for the free fees initiative.

As part of Budget 2026, Minister Lawless and I announced a permanent reduction in the free fees initiative Student Contribution charge. This flat rate reduction has reduced the rate from €3,000 to €2,500 for undergraduate students eligible for the free fees initiative and, applied on a pro rata basis, has lowered the student contribution by 17% for apprentices attending Higher Education. In regard to apprentices, €2.5 million was set aside for this purpose and, over the 2025/26 academic year, this will benefit approximately 14,000 apprentices.

As part of Budget 2026, it was important for Minister Lawless and I to make permanent, sustainable interventions that would give learners certainty. With this permanent measure Minister Lawless and I have done that. This is the first time the student contribution has been permanently reduced.

While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next budget, I can assure the Deputy that minister Lawless and I will consider all options available to me to reduce the cost of education for apprentices, students and their families.

Third Level Costs

Ceisteanna (179)

John Connolly

Ceist:

179. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the improvements he has made to student financial supports and SUSI for eligible students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34708/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

I am conscious of reducing the cost of education for students and have consistently outlined my commitment to improving student supports in a way that is equitable, funded and fair, and provides certainty for families.

I prioritised funding for students in Budget 2026 and introduced real and permanent changes that support students from all backgrounds and help reduce the cost of education.

In Budget 2026, I prioritised funding for students and introduced a range of permanent measures to ease financial pressures. These included a permanent €500 reduction in the Student Contribution Charge, a €500 increase in the Postgraduate Contribution Grant, and €19.3 million for the Student Assistance Fund.

I also increased all non-adjacent maintenance grant rates under the SUSI scheme by at least €200 from September 2026, benefiting approximately 30,000 PLC, undergraduate and postgraduate students who face higher accommodation or transport costs. In addition, I increased the income threshold for the €500 student contribution support from €115,000 to €120,000, meaning eligible undergraduate students from households earning under €120,000 will pay no more than €2,000 towards the student contribution charge in 2026/27.

Further Education and Training (FET) courses are free or heavily subsidised, with financial supports available to eligible learners. Those in receipt of certain social welfare payments transfer to a learner allowance while retaining secondary benefits, such as a medical card. Allowance rates are linked to previous social welfare rates, and additional supports for travel, meals, or accommodation may also be available.

The development of diverse and progressive pathways for learners in further and higher education is a key strategic goal of my Department. Tertiary programmes, first launched in July 2023, are a new kind of educational provision which allows a student to begin a degree course in their local Education and Training Board. As of Budget 2026, €4m per annum is allocated towards the development of tertiary programmes.

Students on Tertiary programmes benefit from no tuition fees while studying in the ETB, may access SUSI maintenance grants and other student supports subject to eligibility, and are jointly supported by both the ETB and partner HEI throughout their studies.

The Student Accommodation Strategy, which was launched in March, sets out Ireland’s national policy to support access to appropriate housing for students. Under this Strategy, I am committed to further expanding and enhancing supports that directly address the affordability pressures facing students, especially for those who need it most.

Further and Higher Education

Ceisteanna (180)

Naoise Ó Cearúil

Ceist:

180. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the way the new Offshore Renewable Energy Career Chart will support delivery of the skills pipeline identified in the Offshore Wind Skills Action Plan 2024, particularly in meeting Ireland’s offshore wind targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34847/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Ireland has set ambitious targets for offshore wind energy, and achieving these ambitions will require a significant expansion of the skilled workforce needed to deliver them.

Implementation of the Offshore Wind Skills Action Plan has been a central focus for my Department, underpinned by strong partnership working across government, industry, state agencies, and the education and training system. Progression of the Action Plan is overseen by the Expert Advisory Group, which meets regularly with implementation embedded in its agenda. This ensures strategic alignment of the skills pipeline and coordinated delivery through three EAG subgroups:

• Manufacturing & Supply Chain

• Promoting Careers in Offshore Wind

• Programme Design & Delivery

Throughout the year, each subgroup has advanced targeted initiatives and coordinated projects to support delivery of the skills pipeline critical to offshore renewable energy deployment.

The Offshore Renewable Energy Career Chart is an example of an awareness-raising initiatives developed as part of the intensified programme of work following publication of the Offshore Wind Skills Action Plan.

The https://library.etbi.ie/skillsbox/ore is available online and will also be included in the FET Skills Box, a national initiative led by Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI), to help students, jobseekers, and career changers better understand the wide range of pathways available through Further Education and Training (FET) and beyond.

It will support awareness-raising among groups with limited prior exposure to the sector, highlighting learning and career pathways across offshore renewable energy and contributing to the early development of a skilled, future-ready workforce.

Youth Services

Ceisteanna (181)

Ryan O'Meara

Ceist:

181. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to enhance the supports that are provided to learners with special educational needs, specifically within Youthreach services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29159/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Youthreach programme provides a two-year model of education and training for young people who leave school with limited qualifications. Crucially, Youthreach is deliberately structured as an alternative to mainstream post-primary education, and this makes it particularly well-suited to learners with additional and special educational needs. Its flexible curriculum, enhanced staffing ratios and learner-centred teaching approaches allow programmes to be tailored to the individual circumstances of each learner.

The programme is specifically designed to respond to social, emotional, mental-health and educational challenges, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Evidence consistently shows strong outcomes, not only in certification, but also in confidence, resilience, and personal and social development. The ethos of Youthreach is a learner-centred, which ensures that each young person’s learning profile, strengths and support needs are recognised and addressed. This approach is of particular value to learners with special educational needs.

This focus is further strengthened through the Special Educational Needs Initiative, introduced in 2007 for centres with a high prevalence of learners with additional needs. Nineteen centres currently participate, each receiving a dedicated annual allocation of €52,000.

This funding supports additional staffing, specialist training, mentoring, needs assessment, targeted interventions and, where appropriate, inter-agency collaboration, ensuring centres have the capacity to respond effectively to complex needs.

I remain committed to ensuring that learners across the further education system are provided with the supports they need to reach their full potential.

Student Accommodation

Ceisteanna (182)

Cathal Crowe

Ceist:

182. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the progress made under the National Student Accommodation Strategy. [34853/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

Since the National Student Accommodation Strategy 2026-2035 was approved by Government and published on the 24th March my Department has been focused on activation.

The existing Technological University focused programme has been expanded to include other publicly funded universities.

• Phase One is now underway in respect of Cork, Dublin and Galway. Its work is being guided by advisory board nominees from participating universities.

• The programme consists of both market facing and university facing elements. Market facing work is being supported by the National Development Finance Agency.

• New Era and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation are assisting my department establish the parameters of potential nominations agreements for technological universities.

• The HEA is working with our universities on detailed site assessments for potential on-campus development of PBSA and has received initial site plans for Phase One technological university proposals.

This programme will continue on an agile and iterative basis to achieve a mix of viable projects that meet the needs of stakeholders.

Research has been commissioned in respect of rent-a-room/digs accommodation which will inform the expansion of this important source of supply.

Each Higher Education Institution is required to prepare its own student accommodation strategy aligned with the national Strategy, and to report annually on progress and outcomes. Higher Education Institution’s will also establish dedicated accommodation functions, supported by the Department.

In respect of affordability the Strategy targets an increase in direct support for students. Funding secured in Budget 2026 will see non adjacent SUSI maintenance grants increase by €200-€430 from September 2026 with students this academic year seeing a pro-rata increase.

In broader terms I am pleased that commencement notices have issued for 2,935 student beds currently under construction nationwide, including 493 beds at UCD funded under the Departments Short Term Activation Programme. This demonstrates the impact of measures referenced in the strategy, including reforms to rent regulation and VAT reductions.

The Department will carry out a formal review of implementation of the Strategy every three years to assess progress and update actions where required.

Third Level Education

Ceisteanna (183)

Noel McCarthy

Ceist:

183. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of third-level applications received by the Central Applications Office, and the non-completion rate for the full duration of a course by applicants in each of the years from 2021 to 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34608/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is an autonomous private company and as such, is not under the remit of myself or my Department. Data on applications received by the CAO can be found on their website, on the Media and Statistics page, or requested directly from the CAO.

Data on progression and completion in higher education can be found on the HEA's website.

The HEA publishes data annually on student progression and completion, based on the HEA’s Student Record System (SRS). The latest Progression and Completion Report 2025, which looks at data from the academic years 2016/17 to 2022/23, was published by the HEA in April 2025.

New entrants are deemed as having completed or graduated if they are recorded as having gained an award between the year subsequent to entry and the most recent year for which graduation records are available. Given that courses at Level 6 to Level 8 have durations ranging from 2 to 5+ years and given that students may repeat or take breaks in their studies, the completion data for earlier years is deemed more relevant.

The most recent completion rates available are for the 2018/19 entry cohort, and it should be noted that this refers to students who have completed an award in the same institution by 2023. The non-completion rate remained consistent at 22% from the academic years 2016/17 to 2018/19.

	2016/17 entrants	2017/18 entrants	2018/19 entrants
Level 6	67%	69%	70%
Level 7	63%	62%	62%
Level 8	82%	81%	80%
Grand Total	78%	78%	78%

The HEA’s 2026 Progression and Completion Report is due to be published shortly. The report will examine completion rates for the 2023/24 academic year, and it is expected that completion rates for the 2019/20 entrant cohort will be broadly in line with those of previous cohorts.

According to the OECD Tertiary Education Systems Dashboard, at the bachelor’s degree level or equivalent, Ireland is ranked eighth in completion rates of new-entrants, in 2023. In addition, according to the CSO, in 2022 Ireland had a higher rate of third level education in comparison to the EU-27 average across all age groupings.

Ireland consistently ranks above the EU and OECD average on educational attainment and completion rates at tertiary level.

Artificial Intelligence

Ceisteanna (184)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

184. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he is concerned about the impact of AI tools on third level exam integrity; the measures that are being taken to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34340/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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

My Department takes the potential threat that artificial intelligence (AI) may pose to academic integrity very seriously.

Academic integrity is a matter for individual higher education institutions in the first instance, with the support of Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI).

QQI established the National Academic Integrity Network (NAIN) in 2019. The NAIN is a peer-led network that supports institutions to address the challenges of academic misconduct, including those exacerbated by AI tools.

To assist institutions, learners, and staff in supporting academic integrity, the NAIN has developed Academic Integrity Guidelines, and also Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Guidelines for Educators.

The aim of these Guidelines is to enable an understanding of what AI can and cannot offer, in this way ensuring an ethical basis for the use of AI tools, helping students to build their own self-awareness and knowledge, and avoiding breaches of academic integrity.

The Higher Education Authority leads on policy development on the use of Generative AI with regards to teaching and learning in higher education settings. In December 2025, the HEA published Generative AI in Higher Education Teaching & Learning: Policy Framework, a new national framework to guide the responsible, values-based adoption of generative artificial intelligence in Irish higher education.

The Policy Framework regards exam and assessment integrity as a core academic value that must be actively protected in an environment where generative AI is increasingly embedded. It recognises that AI has disrupted long-standing assumptions about authorship and written assessment, while making clear that students remain fully responsible for all work they submit.

The framework calls on each higher education institution to develop its own policies and procedures, aligned with shared national principles. It emphasises that integrity is best upheld through clarity, transparency, and appropriate assessment design, rather than through prohibition or surveillance.

The policy cautions against reliance on AI detection tools, noting their unreliability and stating that they should not be treated as determinative evidence of misconduct. It encourages institutions to redesign assessment to prioritise authentic engagement, learning process, and human judgement, including the use of oral assessment as a safeguard where appropriate. Overall, the HEA frames assessment integrity as a pedagogical and governance responsibility for institutions themselves, grounded in fairness, proportionality, academic freedom, and natural justice for students. The framework also calls for sustained reform of assessment practices to ensure that qualifications remain credible and trustworthy in the context of widespread use of generative AI tools.