asked the Minister for Education if he will state the amount of the State grant allocated in respect of University College, Galway, in each of the past three years; whether any conditions were prescribed in relation to such grants, particularly in relation to the control of college associations or societies; and, if so, if he will state their nature.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - State Grants to Galway University.
24.
The amount of the State grant voted for Universities and Colleges in 1957/58, 1958/59 and 1959/60 which was allocated to University College, Galway, was as follows:
|
1957/58 |
£96,390 |
|
1958/59 |
£94,450 |
|
1959/60 |
£141,380 |
No conditions of the nature referred to in the Deputy's question were prescribed in respect of these grants.
Is the Minister aware that recently a very serious debate, sponsored by the Literary Debating Society of University College on a genuine political issue, was banned by the College authorities? Is he further aware that this society and other societies have been forbidden for the last two or three years to have any discussions whatever on political matters? In view of the fact that the State subscribes as generously as the Minister has now made clear to the public, will he ensure when future grants are being made that a liberal institution, or so-called liberal educational establishment like University College, Galway, will be run on lines that will enable students in their training period to debate and discuss political matters, especially since we believe it is essential for the future development of this country that graduates from universities should take their place at the head of affairs of State?
There are certain statutory conditions attaching to these grants but I have no function in the internal administration of the university colleges and I would not be in a position to ensure what the Deputy wants.
May I put this point to the Minister that if there is a decision in the near future to make money available for the extension of this university, as well as others, will he ensure that this House is given the opportunity to discuss the points I have made before a final decision is taken?
That seems to be a separate question.
When future grants are being made available, will the Minister make it a condition that a proper pension scheme for technicians and workers will be implemented in Galway University?
That does not arise.
The Minister said that certain conditions were attached to grants and I am asking that a condition be put in, that in future the same scheme as applies in Cork will be enforced in Galway.