Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 6

Written Answers. - National Qualifications Authority.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

400 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science when the first meeting of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland designate took place; the progress which has been made in regard to the development of the authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27433/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

On Friday 10 November last, I launched the designate National Qualifications Authority of Ireland. The incoming authority will establish and maintain a framework of qualifications based on standards of knowledge, skill or competence to be acquired by learners in all institutes, colleges and places of further and higher education and training. It will also facilitate lifelong learning and promote access, transfer and progression for all learners including those who have special needs. An important feature of the work of the new authority will be to ensure the recognition of Irish qualifications internationally and of outside qualifications here.

The designate authority will immediately enter into consultations with the relevant stakeholders in the process to clear the way for me to bring the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act fully into operation in the New Year.

In its designate phase the authority will primarily concern itself with commencing work on the establishment of a national framework of qualifications and advise on and support the transition to the new certification system as set out in the Act. In this regard, the designate authority held a further meeting on 27 November as part of this process.