Thomas Byrne
Question:97. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the new higher education funding model will be introduced; and if there will be winners and losers resulting therefrom. [21830/18]
View answerThursday, 17 May 2018
Questions (97)
Written answers
An independent Expert Panel was appointed by the HEA in 2016 to review the current allocation model for funding higher education and to make recommendations on the most appropriate funding model for the future. I approved and published this report it in January 2018.
The review of the Funding Model provides a roadmap for transitioning towards a reformed funding model that is more transparent, consistent across higher education institutions, that incentivises actions in key strategic areas, and supports improved accountability while also respecting institutional autonomy.
The implementation group has been established and a terms of reference for the group has been agreed. It is comprised of representatives from DES, HEA, DPER, THEA & IUA. Key immediate priorities being considered by the Group include:
- the financial penalties system for serious governance breaches
- the design of the new Innovation fund
- the development of criteria for additional funding for multi-campus provision
- agreement of a terms of reference for a review of the costing model for higher education institutes
Some of the other recommendations will require a lead in time, to allow for the type of consultation and approval necessary. This is reflected in the fact that some recommendations are scheduled for implementation throughout 2019 and 2020.
A number of recommendations will impact directly on the final funding model and distribution for the Higher Education Sector, including the promotion of research and innovation, re-weighting for STEM, part time courses and access. Until all applicable components have been modelled and designed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in consultation with my Department and the Implementation Group it is not possible to comment on the potential impact on individual institutes.