Further and Higher Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 May 2022

Thursday, 19 May 2022

Questions (112)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

112. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 120 of 8 March 2022, if the draft review by the expert panel on the further education and training funding model has been received to date by his Department; when he expects the final report to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25353/22]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

My Department has received the draft report of the expert panel commissioned by SOLAS to review the funding model for Further Education and Training (FET). The report was also sent to the Board of SOLAS and Education and Training Boards Ireland.

At the outset, I wish to acknowledge the work of the panel members in reviewing the existing arrangements and making a comprehensive set of important recommendations for improvement. I understand that the panel undertook extensive research, consulted with a wide range of stakeholders and tested funding ideas and approaches via a series of workshops with education and training boards (ETBs).

The report notes how the current funding model reflects a legacy approach, largely driven by established costs. This provides limited incentives through the funding model for ETBs to pursue more efficient delivery methods or to grow learner numbers in line with the objectives of ETB strategies and national FET strategy.

The first step following the completion of the review will be the establishment of an implementation group that will plan and oversee the roll-out of the new funding model, and my Department will participate on the group.

Implementation will require a phased and incremental approach, ensuring that ETBs can plan and respond to the new and evolving funding model. The review is an important enabler for the FET Strategy and I look forward to work with SOLAS and the further education and training sector more broadly to implement the recommendations.

SOLAS will publish the Review report once finalised in quarter 2 of this year.