Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2021
173. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the measures he is taking to guarantee that there will be a greater number of third-level places created for the leaving certificate class of 2022 in view of the fact that there will be a higher than normal levels of CAO applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56445/21]
View answerThe CAO application portal for the 2022 academic year opened on 5th November. Information on how the number of applicants compares to previous years is therefore not yet available.
My Department will closely monitoring any potential impact that the level of applications may have on entry to further and higher education in 2022. A key goal of my Department is to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to pursue educational pathways which allow them to achieve their full potential. Budget 2022 including funding for additional capacity in the higher education sector, as demographics will continue to drive expansion in that area.
We are also working to promote a broader view of third level education, and to enhance the visibility of further education and training, and apprenticeship options for school leavers.
To help them make the most informed choice possible, school leavers are now able to explore all of the options across the third level system, whether in higher education, further education or apprenticeship options, from the CAO website. I encourage this year's Leaving Certificate students to consider all the paths available to them.
