asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries when he received an application from University College, Dublin, for the erection of a main faculty building at Belfield for students of agriculture; and if he will indicate the present position regarding the application and when a decision is likely to be made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - UCD Agriculture Faculty.
41.
A schedule of accommodation, architect's brief and estimate of cost of a proposed new agriculture building at Belfield were received from University College Dublin in May, 1970. The proposals were the subject of discussion and correspondence between my Department and University College subsequently and are at present under examination by the Higher Education Authority who have, I understand, been in touch with UCD about them.
I am not in a position at this stage to say when a decision on the application is likely to be made.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the failure to provide a main faculty building which would bring Agriculture into contact with the other faculties is one of the causes of a strike among the students?
Yes, indeed.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider having this matter expedited so that such central faculty building can be provided soon?
I can assure the Deputy that we are anxious to get on with this as soon as possible. These consultations with the Higher Education Authority are necessary.