I propose to take Questions Nos. 337, 338, 339 and 341 together.
I aware of this group of Irish students, and a small number of others, who were studying Medicine and Dentistry in Ukraine whose studies have been disrupted as a result of the invasion. I am working closely with the higher education sector to see what can be done to support them and facilitate their studies.
My Department is in contact with a number of affected students with a view to establishing, in the first instance, factual information regarding their studies. I would urge any other Irish students who were in a similar position in Ukraine, but who have not yet been in contact, to make contact with my Department.
A key element of this process will be to understand the alignment of the students’ programme with the Irish system of medical and dentistry education and to understand any issues arising regarding accreditation by the professional bodies. In the first instance my Department is engaged with the Irish Universities Association, and we will also engage with other stakeholders. In line with the overall Government position, my Department and agencies will work together to support students affected by the invasion, in every way that we can.