Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1433. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he intends to remove the financial barriers for graduates to enter medical degrees given the need in Ireland for medical professionals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39840/22]
View answerThe total level of fees charged to graduate entry medicine students is a matter for the higher education institutions, consistent with the principle of their institutional autonomy. However the State does provide support to institutions for Graduate Entry Medicine programmes in order to widen access and assist the students pursuing these programmes.
In this context, the fees of EU students enrolled in graduate entry medicine are partly subsidised by the state via the Higher Education Authority. As of the 2021/2022 academic year the state contribution is €11,950 per student per year. The balance of fees is payable by the student.
In addition, tax relief at the standard rate of tax may also be available in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education and students experiencing financial difficulties may be eligible to apply to the Student Assistance Fund (SAF) for financial support.
At present the SUSI student grant scheme does not encompass graduate entry medicine. While there are legislative, policy and funding issues which arise in examining the question of extending student support for graduate entry medicine, the Student Grant Review did raise the policy question of whether there should be flexibility for graduate programmes in areas of critical skills shortages.
My Department will, therefore, be considering the options for reform in this area as part of the implementation of the student grant review having regard to ongoing developments regarding medical places.
