Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 September 2021
558. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will publish the findings of the independent consultants appointed by the European Commission to assess the Cassells report in advance of Budget 2022 next month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46600/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department's Statement of Strategy, which I published on 8 March last, contains a commitment to put in place a sustainable funding model for the higher education. This is essential in ensuring that our higher education institutions can effectively meet high standards of quality and performance, and achieve critical outcomes for our economy and society.
The report referred to in the Deputy's question was commissioned under the European Commission's Structural Reform Support Programme in November 2019. The final report deliverable was agreed between the Commission (DG Reform) and it's consultants at the end of May 2021.
Following its completion my Department has commenced its examination of the report's analysis, findings, conclusions and recommendations in order to develop proposals for Government to seek to meet the commitment contained in its Statement of Strategy. Once this examination is concluded the report will be submitted to Government for consideration in advance of its publication (pending agreement with the European Commission as the contracting authority).
Budgetary discussions in relation to higher education provision for 2022 are ongoing and I will continue to work towards increased investment in Higher Education for 2022 and beyond.
