asked the Minister for Education if he will make a statement concerning the future of evening degree courses in UCD.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - UCD Degree Courses.
86.
The Deputy no doubt appreciates that the organisation of evening degree courses is in every case a matter for the university college concerned. I understand that the recent large increase in the numbers presenting for evening arts courses in UCD has posed problems which are at present being studied by the college authorities. I do not feel that pending full consideration of the matter by these authorities it would be proper for me to make a statement which would be based on any assumptions.
I am aware of the extreme reluctance to become involved in university affairs at present but would the Minister be prepared to impress on all university authorities and particularly on UCD, the definite need to continue evening degree courses, which have been somewhat imperilled? In addition would he state to the House that, in his opinion, any such withdrawal would be unfair and discriminatory against those who in later life want to avail of higher educational academic facilities?
I should be very perturbed if these courses were discontinued.
Is the Minister aware that for nearly 20 years there has been a full degree course in commerce in UCD and that there is no suggestion that it should be brought to an end? The question referred to degree courses not to degrees in arts.
I am mainly concerned with degrees in arts because this is where the problem lies at the moment and that is why I replied in that way.
The faculty of commerce have with great difficulty given a full degree course for the past 20 years when other people bailed out.
Could the Minister expand his reply on the "problem" that he sees "lying" in arts and not in commerce? I am not quite clear what he means by that.
The difficulties appear to be arising in relation to evening arts courses because of the very large increase in the numbers presenting themselves for these courses.
There are increases also in commerce.
I have pointed out that in the case of arts it is a very large increase.
Has the Minister any information on the suggestion that these courses may be re-introduced in Trinity College?
No. I was not asked that question.
I am glad to say there is a rumour that they are.