Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 April 2014
214. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has reviewed the discussion paper by the Nevin Economic Research Institute regarding the funding of the higher education system and it's call to reverse cuts to third-level education and eventually reduce student registration fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16482/14]
View answerI am aware of the paper referred to by the Deputy and the recommendations contained in it which are relevant to the work which is ongoing between my Department and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in relation to the future funding policy for higher education. This builds upon the substantial amount of work already undertaken by the HEA. The objective is to identify a range of approaches that, combined, will achieve a sustainable funding base to address the continual expansion of the sector while protecting the quality of education. I have asked that this report be considered in that context.
