Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
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715. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the measures he is taking to improve access to graduate entry medicine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67899/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) is an accelerated four-year programme designed for individuals who already hold a degree and wish to pursue a medical career. As GEM is considered a second degree, students are not eligible for support under the Free Fees Initiative or the Student Grant Scheme due to progression criteria. I am aware that this can present a significant financial challenge for many students.

My Department provides support for broadening access to GEM programmes through the part-subsidy of fees for eligible EU students. This subsidy is paid to higher education institutions via the Higher Education Authority, with the balance being paid by the student. For the 2024/25 academic year, the subsidy per EU GEM student was €16,250 for additional places created under the 2022 agreement to expand medical places, and €14,220 for pre-existing places. In total, €13 million was paid out in tuition fee subsidies for GEM students in 2024/25.

In terms of student supports, my Department has taken steps to improve access and affordability for GEM students. Under the National Access Plan, socioeconomically disadvantaged students who receive bursaries will now be allowed to retain them if they choose to enter GEM programmes. This is a positive development that supports diversity in the medical profession. Additionally, GEM students may apply to the Student Assistance Fund, which provides financial support for students experiencing hardship, including help with rent, childcare, transport, and academic materials. Applications are made through the Access Office of the student’s institution.

Tax relief at the standard rate may also be available for tuition fees paid for approved courses, and a rent tax credit may apply. Further details are available at www.revenue.ie.

Higher Education Institutions as autonomous bodies determine their own fee structures for GEM programmes. However, the subsidy provided by my Department assists students in promotes the accessing of GEM courses at lower fee rates than would otherwise be required by an institution to deliver the programme.

The Student Grant Scheme is reviewed annually, but the Deputy will appreciate that the funding allocation for student supports is determined in the context of the overall estimates and budgetary process undertaken by all Government Departments, having regard to overall resource constraints and other competing demands.

I remain committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that access to Graduate Entry Medicine is improved and that financial barriers are reduced wherever possible. I have asked my officials to examine options in relation to continued expansion of supports, which will be considered in the context of the annual budgetary cycle.