A new group representing private colleges has lodged a formal complaint against State bodies for alleged “unfair and anti-competitive practices” in regard to English language education courses.
The Private College Network (PCN) chairman David Russell said it was bringing a case on behalf of its members to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.
"Their businesses are now being put at risk due to the refusal of Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) to engage properly with us . . . which represents a serious shortcoming in QQI's statutory duty to treat all parties equally," Mr Russell said.
The QQI is the State body responsible for the national framework for English language courses.
The recently-formed group claims its member colleges promoting English language education courses are being “discriminated” against by QQI, the Department of Justice and other State organisations.
PCN members include Limerick City College, Seda College, Cork City College, Citas College Dublin, NED Training Centre, International College of Technology and Academic Bridge.
‘Undue promotion’
In the complaint, the PCN alleges that there is "undue promotion within the sector" for members of the private company Marketing English in Ireland (MEI).
MEI member schools are accredited by the QQI.
Mr Russell said the PCN was seeking meetings with the QQI and the Department of Justice to resolve the matter.
Mr Russell said: “Our members are deeply committed to the highest quality standards of education provision and to the continuing enhancement of services in line with policy and regulation for the sector.
"This includes their intention to qualify for quality assurance accreditation to the required standards of the International Education Mark, administered by Quality and Qualifications Ireland. Our members are also seeking accreditation for English language courses that they are running."
MEI chief executive David O’Grady said the company would not comment on issues between any organisation and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.
