The Committee shadows the Department of Education and Youth and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science focusing on matters relating to reviewing policy, legislation, and budgetary estimates for higher education, further education and training, and research.
What we do
- Overview
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The Committee was established following the orders of Dáil Éireann on 30 April 2025 and of Seanad Éireann on 13 May 2025.
The select committee may consider Bills, Estimates and other business referred to it by the Dáil Éireann that relate to the Department.
The joint committee may consider EU business and engage with Ministers and European bodies. It is also empowered to consider the general scheme or draft heads of Bills and any post-enactment report on any Bill enacted by the Houses in respect of the Department. It may also engage with chairpersons-designates of bodies or agencies under the aegis of the Department.
- Scope
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The scope of the Committee includes consideration of:
- Higher and Further Education: Policy and funding for universities, technological universities, and further education colleges
- Skills and Training: Addressing sectoral skills gaps, critical skills such as AI literacy and data analysis, and the national apprenticeship model
- Research and Innovation: Oversight of national research funding, scientific innovation, and the newly established agency, Research Ireland
- Student Welfare: Focusing on student accommodation strategies, rising costs, and mental health supports
- Legislation and Budget: Reviewing relevant laws and considering the annual Estimates for the department
More about committees
An Oireachtas committee is a group of Members of the Oireachtas chosen by one or both Houses of the Oireachtas to consider a certain topic.
Committees receive submissions and presentations from members of the public, interest groups and Government Departments. Their public meetings are broadcast live and recorded and they may publish reports on specific issues.
Committees also scrutinise Government expenditure and debate proposed legislation.
How committees operate
Committees are formed when both Dáil and Seanad elections have taken place and after a Government is formed.
The work of committees
Committees tend to shadow the work of a Department and consider all aspects of policy relating to that Department.
Giving evidence
Committees may invite people or bodies to give evidence by way of written or oral presentation on relevant matters.