QQI and Clonmel training provider
Deputy Mattie McGrath complained that QQI had refused to engage with a Clonmel training company and said his correspondence had gone unanswered. The Minister said QQI is an independent body and, if representations had been made, he would ensure they were answered.
The programme for Government gives a commitment to increase accountability of State agencies. Quality and Qualifications Ireland, QQI, a State educational agency which deals with quality and qualifications issues, has consistently refused to engage with a company in my town of Clonmel. The Institute of Professional Training in Clonmel, which achieved provider status in 2013, having passed all FETAC audits after it spent considerable money and time, has been unceremoniously stood down.
I have written to the Minister, Deputy Bruton, on this matter but he has not replied. I have tried to engage with the chief executive of QQI who has refused to do so. I am asking the Minister, in the interests of transparency, to instruct the CEO of QQI, Dr. Padraig Walsh, to engage with this company and also with elected representatives. There is no accountability and this behaviour is unacceptable. No reasons were given for why having achieved accreditation for courses this was then withdrawn from the company.
Comment on this
As a longstanding Member of the House, the Deputy will know that QQI is a body with its own board. Ministers can only issue instructions in respect of policy issues.
Comment on this
We do not issue instructions in relation to day-to-day issues. If the Deputy has made representations, I will ensure they are responded to.