Colleges may face funding cuts over access targets

Third-level colleges could have funding cut if they do not meet new targets to improve access for disadvantaged, disabled and mature students.

Despite progress in the last five years, many Higher Education Authority targets for participation by under-represented groups have not been met.

Irish third-level participation rates are among the EU’s highest, at 52% of 18 to 20-year-olds, up from 44% in the lifetime of the HEA’s 2008-2013 national access plan.