Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is an important question on an issue that has perhaps been overlooked or messed around with politically for far too long. The previous Oireachtas decided on another review, so an all-party committee got together, looked at the Cassells report and asked for an economic evaluation. That is the process the Deputy is asking me about.

The development of a sustainable funding model is essential in light of the centrality of further and higher education to our progress as a country, which applies now more than ever. Against the backdrop of rapid technological change, the future development of Ireland as an inclusive society and a knowledge economy will be critically dependent on the quality of our graduates.

We do not want anyone to be locked out of society or out of our economy and we need to make sure everyone is prepared for this.

In that context a comprehensive economic evaluation of the funding options presented in the report of the expert group on future funding for higher education is under way and is supported, as Deputy O'Sullivan said, under the European Commission DG REFORM programme. My Department is working closely with the European Commission and the independently appointed consortia of consultants. The key aim of this review is to investigate methods of increasing the sustainability of higher and further education provision in Ireland, including an examination of the funding options. This review commenced early this year, and work is now expected to be complete towards the end of quarter 1 of next year. My Department will continue to work with stakeholders on this comprehensive analysis of funding options for higher education and the assessment of the appropriate balance in provision across the tertiary education system. Completion of this work will allow for an informed debate on the appropriate policy approach to future planning and funding of higher and further education provision, which, as I said, is fundamental to Ireland's economic and social sustainability.

I look forward to keeping the Deputy informed. I am aware of his interest in this area. I expect we will have the outcome of the report at the end of quarter 1 of 2021.

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