The statistics the Deputy refers to comes from data recently published by the HEA on the socio-economic profile of higher education institutions. This is the second year that we have this data and builds on a report the HEA published last year. The data is of significant benefit for higher education institutions in terms of supporting them to implement a more targeted approach in their access and outreach strategies.
In addition, in 2021 work will commence on the development of the next National Plan for Equity of Access to Higher Education including new participation targets. The data in the HEA report will have a key role to play here and to both policymakers in terms of setting targets for the next National Access Plan and will be vital in showing progress achieved to date and setting ambitions for the future.
In relation to targeted strategies, the Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) operated by HEIs supports students who have a socio-economic disadvantage to enter higher education, including medicine courses, on reduced points. The Irish Universities Association (IUA) is currently carrying out a review of the HEAR scheme.
