James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

66. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the strategy to ensure an adequate number of higher and further education places will be made available for the 2022-2023 academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6376/22]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I’m very aware of the challenges that have been faced by this year’s Leaving Certificate students, and I am working to ensure that students have access to a wider range of options across the third level education system. This means not just higher education options but those in further education and apprenticeships also.

My officials are engaging with the higher education sector on targeted additional places for the 2022/23 academic year, with a focus on areas of the workforce where there are clear skills needs such as healthcare, construction and the green economy.

We’re also increasing both the number and range of apprenticeships available, and last year saw our highest ever number of apprenticeships registrations, with more than 8,600 new apprenticeships registered. This figure will only grow in the next number of years, as we approach our target of 10,000 new apprentices a year by 2025.

There’s a range of PLC courses all around the country which are tailored for those looking to develop their technical and practical skills. As of this year, all PLC programmes are free of charge, making them more accessible than ever before.

Information on the options available in further education, higher education and apprenticeship are all available for the first time on the CAO website this year, and I encourage anyone who is looking to take the next step in their educational journey to have a look and consider all the possibilities open to them.