Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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2695. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the measures that could be implemented to ensure Springboard+ applicants are not penalised for administrative errors (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45103/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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My Department considers it important that Springboard+ applicants using the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process are not disadvantaged due to circumstances beyond their control, including administrative delays. Springboard+ is manged by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) on behalf of my Department.

Staff in higher education providers, as outlined in their Springboard+ contracts, must follow the guidelines issued by the HEA regarding eligibility criteria for Springboard+. However, the responsibility for assessing applications rests solely with the individual higher education provider.

Staff are required to attend training sessions held by the HEA regarding the Springboard+ eligibility criteria and routine communication is established with the Springboard+ team to address any queries regarding applicant eligibility for the programme.

Higher education institutions retain autonomy over academic requirements for courses. Given the nature of devolved academic institutions, it is the prerogative of course providers to make assessment regarding the academic requirements of courses. Therefore, providers manage the assessment of applications locally, and the HEA act only in an advisory capacity regarding enforcing eligibility criteria as outlined by my Department, the Departments of Social Protection and Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, and the European Social Fund (ESF).

Course providers are advised to grant recognition of prior learning (RPL) where appropriate, in line with their own RPL policies. However, given the nature of divergent institution policies regarding RPL and to uphold the academic integrity of courses, it is a matter for each provider to consider the academic suitability of applicants for courses. Providers are expected to do this in a timely manner in advance of course deadlines.

It should be noted that demand for Springboard+ courses has been exceptionally high for 2025, with many applications for all courses submitted very early, placing a large demand on administrative staff assigned to process Springboard applications. This has put increased pressure on the application process and has caused the delay in the assessment of some applications.