Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 March 2023
72. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide details for a new veterinary college; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15705/23]
View answerEnsuring a supply of qualified Vets to meet the demands of the sector is a priority for my Department. Workforce planning requirements for the veterinary medicine sector require advice from and consultation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Veterinary Council of Ireland, as the regulators of the profession.
No decisions have been made at this stage in relation to a new veterinary college.
The Higher Education Authority is concluding an Expressions of Interest process to identify where capacity could be built in key disciplines including Veterinary Medicine. An Expert Advisory Panel, appointed by the Authority, has reviewed the opportunities for new programmes. The panel is comprised of representatives from Government Departments and regulatory and professional bodies that have direct professional experience and/or academic expertise in the relevant disciplines, or knowledge of the higher education system at a senior level.
This is an independent process, managed by the HEA. A report with options and recommendations from the process will be presented to me by the HEA shortly.
