Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 2 May 1979

Vol. 313 No. 12

Written Answers. - UCG Funds.

308.

asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the statement made by the President of University College, Galway concerning (1) the probability that the college will have an accumulated deficit of £400,000 by the end of 1979 unless funds are made available, (2) the 5 per cent increase in the allocation of funds to the college for the coming year which represents a decrease in funds available taking into account an expected inflation rate of 9-10 per cent for 1979, (3) the reduction in real terms of funding which is causing (a) an unsatisfactory staff/student ratio of 1 to 19 and (b) a cut back in maintenance work and laboratory staffing, (4) the reduction in the numbers taking Irish language and the fall in the standards of those taking Irish; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of the reported statement to which reference is made.

In connection with the amount which should be provided in subhead A2 of Vote 35—Higher Education—for general (non-capital) grants to universities and colleges and designated institutions of higher education, the Government took all relevant factors into account, including income from fees as well as grants. They were satisfied that the provision made in subhead A2 was adequate and appropriate.

The allocation in Part III of Vote 35 of the amount provided in subhead A2 to the individual universities and colleges and designated institutions was made on the advice of the Higher Education Authority. This amount, in the case of University College, Galway, was £4,710,000 and represented an increase of £218,300 on that for 1978. Additional income to college over 1978 would also be available from fees.

I am satisfied that the situation in relation to the number of students studying the Irish language in University College, Galway, will continue to receive the constant attention of the college authorities in consultation with the Higher Education Authority.

Top
Share