asked the Minister for Education if it is his intention to build the four regional technical colleges recommended by the Higher Education Authority; and the timescale for this development.
551.
Written Answers. - Regional Technical Colleges.
550.
asked the Minister for Education if it is his intention to create extra student places in the city of Dublin VEC colleges; and the number of places that will be provided in: (a) Bolton Street College of Technology, (b) Kevin Street College of Technology, (c) Rathmines College of Commerce, (d) College of Marketing and Design and (e) Dublin College of Catering.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 550 and 551 together.
It is my intention that four regional technical colleges should be provided in the Dublin area as recommended by the Higher Education Authority. The intention is that these colleges would be ready for occupation by 1986.
In regard to the Dublin City Vocational Education Committee Colleges, I am at present examining proposals by the committee in relation to improved accommodation at Bolton Street and Kevin Street Colleges of Technology. Pending finalisation of discussions, I am not in a position to state the number of additional places which may be provided. I have, however, recently approved the purchase of additional land adjacent to Bolton Street College at a cost of £730,000.
If specific proposals are received from Dublin City Vocational Education Committee for extra student places at Rathmines College of Commerce, the College of Marketing and Design and the Dublin College of Catering, such proposals will receive due consideration.