I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 123 together.
I am aware of the correspondence referred to by the Deputy. In May 2015, the Government announced a series of reforms to the student immigration system for international education. These reforms are now being implemented and my Department maintains ongoing contact with relevant stakeholders with a view to ensuring that the new standards and safeguards introduced are achieving their desired objectives, namely to support the continued growth of a high-quality international education sector and to protect genuine students, legitimate operators and Ireland’s reputation, while preventing abuse of our immigration system.
Within this context, I am aware that concerns have recently been raised by some stakeholders around the issue of compliance by non-EU/EEA students with residence requirements and guidelines concerning proof of funds. My officials are currently examining this issue and will make a recommendation to me in the near future.