Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2021
448. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he has conducted an analysis in relation to the number of college places available in the context of grade inflation. [58492/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra449. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he has conducted an analysis in relation to the number of college places available in the context of grade inflation; and if she has consulted with the State Examinations Committee and or the CAO on this matter. [58493/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 448 and 449 together.
My Department will closely monitoring any potential impact that the level of CAO applications or Leaving Certificate grades may have on entry to further and higher education in 2022. It should be noted that Leaving Certificate grades do not impact the number of places available in higher education, although they may lead to changes in the CAO points required for courses.
A key goal of my Department is to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to pursue educational pathways which allow them to achieve their full potential. Budget 2022 including funding for additional capacity in the higher education sector, as demographics will continue to drive expansion in that area.
We are also working to promote a broader view of third level education, and to enhance the visibility of further education and training, and apprenticeship options for school leavers.
To help them make the most informed choice possible, school leavers are now able to explore all of the options across the third level system, whether in higher education, further education or apprenticeship options, from the CAO website. I encourage this year's Leaving Certificate students to consider all the paths available to them.
