Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Following the invasion of Ukraine and in line with the European Council Decision on 4 March 2022, the Government is applying rights under the International Protection Act 2015 to those granted temporary protection.

The Act entitles recipients to immediate access to the labour market, along with access to social welfare, accommodation and other State supports including healthcare and education. However, while access to higher education for displaced Ukrainians during the early stages of the response phase was managed on an emergency basis, it is now necessary to move to a more sustainable approach, in line with overall Government policy.

As autonomous bodies, admissions policy is a matter for each individual higher education institution (HEIs). Following consultation with the sector, it has been agreed by the Admissions Officers of the HEIs that all Ukrainian students in receipt of Temporary Protection, regardless of whether they plan to sit the Leaving Certificate or wish to apply using their Ukrainian examinations or qualifications, should apply to the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ie for a place in higher education in Ireland for the 2023/24 academic year.

My officials are finalising the position on the remaining issues, and this will be communicated to stakeholders very shortly.