Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2016
140. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the planned course of action in relation to the Cassells report on higher education funding, which was presented to his Department in March 2016, including when he will publish it. [11248/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra172. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he will publish the Cassells report on the future funding for higher education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11553/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra179. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he will publish the Cassells report on future funding for higher education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11560/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 140, 172 and 179 together.
The Government recognises the importance of higher education to Ireland's future economic and social development and also the huge impact a higher education experience has on the lives of individuals. In considering the best way forward, the previous Government established an Expert Group to examine future funding requirements for higher education and to present options for developing a sustainable long term funding strategy for the sector.
This Group has completed its work and its report will shortly be considered. As signalled in the Programme for Government, the report will be published and it is the intention to consult the cross-party Oireachtas Committee as part of the process for formulating a plan for the future of this sector.
The Report of the Expert Group will allow for a real and meaningful discussion on the funding requirements of the sector and how those requirements should be met. The engagement with the cross-party Oireachtas Committee will ensure that all views can be heard and considered on the most appropriate way forward for the Irish higher education system. I would like to assure the Deputy that we will engage quickly and openly with the Committee on this issue.
