Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
606. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if future supports for PhD students will be distributed equitably amongst students, including students who conduct research under Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine-funded projects. [43922/23]
View answerIn November 2022, I appointed Dr. Andrea Johnson and Mr. David Cagney to undertake an independent National Review of State Supports for PhD Researchers. This reflects the objective, under the dedicated Talent Pillar of Impact 2030, Ireland’s national research and innovation strategy, for a consistent research student experience across funders, institutions and research disciplines.
The Review Terms of Reference comprised examination of:
• Current financial supports for PhD researchers,
• The adequacy, consistency and equity of current arrangements,
• The status of PhD researchers (employee/ student) including a review of international comparators,
• Impact on the funding of research programmes of any adjustments to current supports,
• Graduate outcomes, including return on investment,
• Visa requirements and duration for non-EU students.
The Co-Chairs’ first review report was published on 26 June 2023 and is available on www.gov.ie. The following elements of the terms of reference required further analysis prior to recommendations being made due to their particular complexity:
• Consistency and equity of approaches in how PhD researchers are supported;
• The status of a PhD researcher, i.e. classification as either a student or an employee
The Co-Chairs have now submitted their final report. Their independent recommendations are currently being considered by my officials and myself. An 18-month programme to implement appropriate recommendations is under development.
Matters in relation to stipend levels, will be announced later in the week.
