Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 May 2021
95. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his views on whether limiting access to higher and further education is anachronistic; if he will consider establishing open access to third-level education for all; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26996/21]
View answerAt the outset, I am determined that all students and learners are provided with the opportunities to acquire and develop the skills that allow them reach their potential in a way that meets the very broad and rapidly changing needs of our labour force, the economy and society. My objective is, therefore, to ensure that there is access into either further or higher education for each person who wishes to pursue educational options at third-level.
It is very important to acknowledge the diversity of pathways that meet both individual and wider educational and skills needs. In my role as Minister for Further and Higher Education, it has, therefore, been a priority for me to highlight and communicate the need for a balanced tertiary education system. Those countries that we seek to emulate in terms of the development of the full range of individual talents and the high skill levels of their workforce are those that have strong vocational educational systems including in relation to apprenticeship provision.
While fully recognising the critical role of the higher education system, we are also working to strengthen the further education and training system under a new strategy for that sector. This will help ensure that our tertiary education system as a whole equips our students with the knowledge, skills and expertise required to secure good quality, well paid and sustainable employment.
My Department and the Higher Education Authority will continue to engage actively with the higher education institutions on the availability of places in higher education and to build capacity in the higher education system including in particular at this time for the Leaving Certificate class of 2021. I am confident that there will be an increased range of places this year and an expanded range of options across further and higher education for prospective students to consider.
