Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 March 2008
429 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress that has taken place in relation to the consultation with relevant agencies referred to in Parliamentary Question No. 450 of 4 March 2008; when the discussions commenced; if the agencies or her Department initiated the discussions; if so, when they did; the name of the persons involved in those discussions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10535/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department is continuing its efforts to press for compliance with legislation in this area and recognises that the existence of such organisations is contrary to the interests of Ireland's higher education institutions, which have sought to preserve the high international standing and quality reputation of higher education in Ireland. In addition to this, the Department has had discussions with representatives of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland, the Higher Education Authority, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council and the Irish Universities Association. The use of the National Framework of Qualifications to clearly and effectively communicate nationally and internationally what qualifications (and associated lists of qualifications and institutions with programmes leading to them) are recognised in Ireland is considered very important.
The establishment of Education Ireland is vital as it is to be the face of Irish education abroad and will take the lead role in communicating outside Ireland. The effectiveness of the existing scheme of regulating the titles of institutions is also being considered in the context of possibilities to enhance such effectiveness.
