Conor Sheehan (Limerick City, Labour)
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286. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills when the process of designation of institutes for higher education institutes will begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36353/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The HEA Act 2022 provides for the designation of additional institutions by ministerial order, however the provisions enabling this process have not yet been commenced. Work is underway to develop the designation by order process, including initial consideration of the conditions under which designation might occur.

This is a complex process and will involve liaison with the HEA, QQI and other sectoral stakeholders, including higher education representative bodies, to ensure the new designation process fits seamlessly within the higher education system.

Adequate time must be afforded to ensure the designation-by-order process is fit for purpose and aligns with its policy intent. The Department is committed to making substantial progress on this work in 2025, with a view to initiating the designation-by-order process as soon as practicable.