Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
1160. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans to extend the additional college places into the 2022-2023 academic year given the leaving certificate points inflation; if additional places will be secured for 2022-2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1309/22]
View answerI am very conscious of the pressures faced by students who are due to take their Leaving Certificate examinations in 2022, and the concerns they have around access to third level education. In relation to entry to higher education, my Department will be closely monitoring any potential impact that the level of CAO applications or Leaving Certificate grades may have on entry to further and higher education in 2022.
A key goal of mine is to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to pursue educational pathways which allow them to achieve their full potential. Budget 2022 included 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 – www.cao.ie/options. I encourage this year's Leaving Certificate students to consider all the paths available to them.
