Mairead Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 177:

In page 59, after line 26, to insert the following: “Recognition of prior qualification

64.Recognising that those involved in construction work holding a qualification certified at Level 5 QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) have previously used this to apply for further study at third level education, in lieu of a recognised Leaving Certificate, following the passing of this Act, there will be no adverse impact to that prior recognition of qualification for applications to third level study.”.

A huge number of amendments were tabled for this Stage, which has been difficult. I would like to have a briefing with the officials to get my head around the legislation, and I will follow up by email in that regard. I have been contacted by some people from the sector who are concerned that on the passing of the Bill, they could be decertified with respect to their qualifications, which have often been used to apply for third-level study by people who do not hold a recognised leaving certificate. To be honest, from what I could see in the Bill, I did not think that would be the case, but I nonetheless want to take precautions when somebody from the sector who is concerned has raised an issue with me. The amendment seeks to highlight that and ensure this recognition of prior qualification will remain in place.

That was the thinking behind the amendment. Perhaps the Minister of State could speak to that. To be clear, they were concerned that on passing this Bill, their qualifications - the QQI level 5 certification - could become decertified.