asked the Minister for Education if he has any plans for the democratisation of the universities.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Democratisation of Universities.
94.
Mr. R. Burke
This is a matter on which I would require to be advised by the Higher Education Authority since the promotion of the democratisation of the structure of higher education is amongst the general functions specifically assigned to the authority under the provisions of the Higher Education Authority Act, 1971. However, I would not expect the authority to be in a position to submit realistic recommendations for my consideration until decisions have been taken by the Government in relation to the future structure, and organisation of the universities.
Would the Minister not accept that the time has now come when the people outside the educational aristocracy, and the inbreeding which has occurred there, should have a voice in what happens in our universities?
Mr. R. Burke
I agree that an outside voice is imperative. It is provided that members of the General Council of County Councils are members of the governing bodies of the universities. In any future reorganisation outside participation should be negotiated but this will depend on our plans for reorganisation.
Would the Minister not accept that there has been no corresponding democratisation in the matter of university education to correspond with what has occurred at primary and post-primary level. As far as I am concerned there is a great need for outside influences to guide those people.
Mr. R. Burke
We all agree with the idea of democratisation and one of the specific objects of the HEA is to advise the Minister on these lines. I am awaiting their proposals, and to implement any that I receive if I judge them to be in the public interest.
Would the Minister not accept that, as the members of the HEA are closely connected with universities, they are not likely to suggest the remedies which Members of this House, or other institutions, might put forward.
Mr. R. Burke
I can assure the Deputy that I take the view that third level education as a whole must be viewed by a Minister and not simply university education. It will be my interest in the future to see that places are available at third level for all students who wish to avail themselves of further education.
Is the Minister aware that there are no television cameras in the House?
Do not be catty.
It is a good job for the Deputy that the cameras are not here.
It is a good job for the Minister.