asked the Minister for Labour if he has received any representations from the Irish Management Institute in regard to the reduction in their allocation for 1988; if the Irish Management Institute has advised him about the way in which they propose to pursue a programme of training and education with their reduced allocation; his views on whether the reduction in allocation is compatible with the development objectives of the Government's overall strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Irish Management Institute Funding.
25.
I have received representations from the Irish Management Institute and I have met with the chairman and director general to discuss the position regarding the IMI's allocation for 1988.
I should say that, while the 1988 allocation shows a decrease of £300,000 in Exchequer funding compared to 1987, the 1987 allocation was an exceptionally high one. The 1987 allocation had been greatly increased over 1986 to offset European Social Fund losses and to give the IMI an opportunity to adjust to the changed situation.
The question of managing with the 1988 Exchequer allocation is, of course, one for the IMI.
The Government recognises the importance of high quality management for our future development. The contribution of management training to economic development, including funding arrangements, is under review and I have established an advisory committee for that purpose which will report to me in June 1988. The report of the committee will provide a basis for the foundations of future policy in relation to management development.