Brian O'Shea
Ceist:254 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress that has been made in regard to the setting up of a higher education and training council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30150/00]
Written Answers. - National Qualifications Authority.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:255 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will set up the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30151/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 254 and 255 together.
I launched the designate National Qualifications Authority of Ireland on Friday, 10 November last. The incoming authority will establish and maintain a framework of qualifications based on standards of knowledge, skill or competence to be acquired by learners in all institutes, colleges and places of further and higher education and training. It will also facilitate lifelong learning and promote access, transfer and progression for all learners including those who have special needs. An important feature of the work of the new authority will be to ensure the recognition of Irish qualifications internationally and of outside qualifications here.
The membership of the designate authority mirrors that provided for under section 6 of the Act.
The designate authority will immediately enter into consultations with the relevant stakeholders in the process to clear the way for me to bring the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act fully into operation in the new year with regard to the establishment of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland on a statutory basis.
It is also my intention to establish the Higher Education and Training Awards Council and the Further Education and Training Awards Council on a statutory basis in the new year pending the outcome of the National Qualifications Authority's consultations with the relevant stakeholders.