Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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15. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16470/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The broad tenets of higher education policy in Ireland were set out in the National Strategy for Higher Education published January 2011. I am implementing a wide ranging reform programme in higher education based in part on the NSHE which will enhance the quality of research, teaching and engagement in the system, modernise governance and accountability of institutions and a restructuring of the system to achieve those aims. I have published my instructions for system restructuring that will strengthen the university sector; consolidate the institute of technology sector and put in place a process for merged institutes to become a technological university; and establish regional clusters. I am bringing through legislation to enable these reforms.

A new System Performance Framework for 2014-16 is now in place and Government system objectives have been conveyed to HEIs by the HEA. The first performance compacts are being finalised. The first Annual System Performance Report from HEA to me is expected shortly.