We all recognise the importance of the early learning sector. The St. Nicholas Montessori College in Dún Laoghaire told its staff and students last month that it is due to close. The St. Nicholas Montessori College had a very long and proud history of education in this sector and was one of the leading colleges in the country. Obviously this decision has taken staff and students, and indeed their families, by complete surprise and shock. While I acknowledge it was a private educational centre, we need to ensure there are better pathways to a level 8 degree in this sector with degrees awarded under the national framework of qualifications, NFQ. There is a need for engagement with the students to find an appropriate and suitable resolution to this issue and for them to continue on their courses and then qualify with the much-needed qualifications. Will the Taoiseach undertake to engage please, or at least have the relevant officials engage, with the college, the staff and the students?

I thank Deputy Devlin for raising this important matter. I understand the college currently offers three programmes: a bachelor of education in Montessori education which is NFQ level 7; a bachelor of education, honours, in Montessori education at NFQ level 8; and a bachelor of arts in psychology at NFQ level 8. I understand that arrangements have been agreed between St. Nicholas, the National College of Ireland, Griffith College, and Munster Technological University to allow learners enrolled in these programmes to continue their studies. The arrangements to allow the impacted learners to continue their studies have been confirmed to the Department. I have quite a lengthy note on that, which I will send to the Deputy in writing.