I propose to take Questions Nos. 287, 288 and 289 together.
In relation to the regional technical colleges and colleges of technology my Department invited the chief executive officers and the principals of the colleges concerned to a meeting in my Department on 15 May 1987 to outline the implications for the colleges of the Government's Budget Statement in relation to staffing in the public service. It was explained to the meeting that my Department was in consultation with the Department of Finance in the matter and that the views of the college representatives would be taken into account in any discussions with that Department. A similar meeting had been held with the Higher Education Authority on 12 May 1987 regarding the universities and designated institutions.
At a further meeting in my Department on 28 May 1987 the chief executive officers and principals of the colleges concerned were informed that the outcome of these discussions was that between now and the end of 1988 the gross pay bill in the sector is to be reduced by 4 per cent in volume terms. This is to result from a saving of 1 per cent of the gross pay bill in the calendar year 1987 and a further 3 per cent in 1988.
The application of the Government's Budget Statement in the HEA sector is still being considered. While the educational institutions are still considering their position in this matter I have no reason to believe that essential activities in the third level sector will be seriously curtailed by the application of the Government's decision.