asked the Minister for Education if he will make a statement on the latest development concerning the proposed university merger.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - University Merger.
84.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply of the 27th November last to a similar question in regard to this matter. I have nothing to add to that reply.
Does that mean that, because the Minister is unaware of these talks proceeding between the universities, he has nothing whatever to say about them?
I am aware of what I read in the newspapers.
And that is the extent of the Minister's knowledge?
Has the Deputy more knowledge about the talks than I have?
I would not think so.
I would not think so either.
But I am not Minister for Education. Could I ask the Minister if he will have an open mind on any proposals that may emanate from these discussions?
I have already informed the heads of both colleges in Dublin that this is a matter that cannot be allowed to drag on. I made it clear at the same time that I welcomed discussions directed towards a generally acceptable solution of the problem involved.
Has the Minister sought from the university authorities a report on their recent discussions on this subject?
I have not. I had a discussion with a group of university people in relation to another matter and it was then that I told them I felt this could not be allowed to drag on. I doubt if there would be much point in asking for a report at this stage on the extent to which they have come to any agreement.
Did the Minister get the impression that they are making no progress?
I have not got that impression. Frankly, I have no information.
There has been considerable speculation as to what took place between the university authorities at that meeting——
Those meetings.
Yes. Various proposals have been made and surely in this House we are entitled to know, since the taxpayers are paying for this exercise, what these proposals are.
I am sure what we are most concerned with is what will result from these talks rather than what the specific position is at any given moment.
I take it the Minister is well aware of the situation and I agree with the Minister in keeping out of it at this stage.
I agree fully with the Deputy.