Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This evening we are meeting with the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Deputy Simon Harris. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister and his officials. The Minister is here to update the committee on key issues, specifically student accommodation and the cost-of-living crisis; the teaching of economics at tertiary level; progress made in implementing the relevant key recommendations in the joint committee report entitled The Future of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) in Irish Education; progress made in implementing the key recommendations in the joint committee report entitled North South Enrolment in Tertiary Education; plans to provide capital funding for the technological university, TU, sector; apprenticeships; and new courses to support the gaps in GP and veterinary services in rural areas.

The format of the meeting is that I will invite the Minister to make a brief opening statement. That will be followed by questions from members of the committee. A large number of Members are here, but I will not limit their time. As Members are probably aware, the committee will publish the Minister's opening statement following the meeting.

I remind Members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Minister, you may begin.