David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 283: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress that has been made on the Bologna declaration; the further progress that has been made to establish a European higher education area; the work that has yet to be carried out; the readiness of third level institutions here in comparison with others in Europe; his further plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10055/04]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department is actively involved in the Bologna process. In 2002, it established a national steering group on the Bologna process, which is chaired by my Department and has representation from the key stake holders. In July 2003, my Department hosted a national conference on the Bologna process in Dublin Castle which was open to representatives from all higher education institutions. This also provided timely input to the preparation of the Irish position for the September 2003 meeting of Ministers with responsibility for higher education in Berlin. Since January 2004, my Department has taken over the chair of the Bologna follow-up group for the duration of the Irish EU Presidency.

Arising from the Berlin meeting of Ministers, specific targets were set for 2005 under the headings of quality assurance, degree structure and recognition of degrees. On each of these fronts, Ireland has made strong progress by reference to our partner signatory countries and the higher education sector deserves commendation for its efforts in this regard. I have further supported these efforts through the recent launch of the diploma supplement and the ratification of the Lisbon recognition convention.

Naturally, I am anxious that the good momentum is maintained and the national steering group, which meets on a regular basis, will continue to be a source of advice to me on the Bologna process in advance of next ministerial conference in Bergen, Norway, in May 2005.