Third Level Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Questions (1463)

Ivana Bacik

Question:

1463. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide a dedicated funding stream to third-level institutions to support the specific needs of transgender students; if his Department has provided guidance to third-level institutions on how best to support self-ID for trans and non-binary students through name change systems in registrar offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36907/23]

Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

My Department does not generally issue guidance in respect of the internal procedures of Higher Education Institutions. However, all public bodies, including higher education institutions are bound by the public sector duty to have regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, and promote equality of opportunity and protect the human rights of its staff and the persons to whom it provides services, including trans students.  

While my Department has enhanced support for learner-focused supports and services in higher education institutions, no specific funding streams have been put in place along the lines identified by the Deputy.