Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 655: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he has decided upon proposals on the funding of third level; if he has evaluated the implications this will have on participation rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28040/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the process to develop a new national strategy for higher education is now underway which is being overseen by a high level steering group, chaired by economist Dr Colin Hunt and comprising national and international expertise including academic, business, community and student interests, as well as senior government officials.

The process affords a timely opportunity to review the environment for higher education and the challenges and changes that are impacting on the sector. An examination of the overall operational, governance and resourcing framework are important elements of the strategy review. The process will consider objectives for participation in higher education as a key aspect of its work.

In contributing to the achievement of national policy goals for social and economic development, it can be anticipated that there will be continuing significant resource needs for the sector. Our higher education system relies disproportionately on Exchequer sources of funding and it is appropriate to look to wider means of meeting future additional resource requirements having particular regard to the difficult budgetary and economic climate that is in prospect in the medium term. As the Deputy is aware I have asked my officials to undertake a review of policy options in relation to the consideration of the introduction of a form of student contribution. There are many complex and competing considerations including the funding matters referred to by the Deputy which need to be taken into account in the consideration of all available options. I am now arranging to provide the completed technical report to my Cabinet colleagues for their initial consideration. I would envisage that this will be formally discussed at Cabinet at a later date.