(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Education if she has received the report of the committee established to consider the provision of places in third level education; if not, when she expects to receive the report; and if she will make a statement on her intentions in this regard.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Third Level Places.
61.
The committee commenced their work at the end of April. In view of the extent of their terms of reference, the numerous submissions which they have received and the studies they have set in train, as well as the importance attached to their work by the third-level institutions and other concerned bodies, I would not expect them to be in a position to furnish a report until sometime early in the New Year.
(Limerick East): Has the Minister any views on the provision of third level places in Education?
Yes. As the Deputy knows, the previous Government took a decision that there should be a very thorough review of the availability of third level places and the job requirements for such. We followed through with that proposal by setting up the interdepartmental committee. As I have said, they work in conjunction with several committees and their work is very extensive. I will be very happy, when the committee submit their findings to me, to make those findings public.
(Limerick East): Is the Minister aware that not only do the demographic trends to which she referred previously but also the increased participation rates in third level education indicate that there will be a major demand for extra places in third level education up to and beyond the year 2,000? Has she any plans to deal with the position which is now urgent?
As I acknowledged in the Dáil yesterday with regard to the third level education element of the Labour Party motion concerning Tallaght, the Patrick Clancy report which issued over the last few days points clearly to the fact that apart from the demographic considerations there is a need for increased take-up in the light of changing job expectations and requirements, particularly after 1992 and that is why the interdepartmental review body assisted by professional expertise which we have set up, would be such an important factor in important decisions. It is in line with the decision of Deputy Noonan's government to set up such a committee whose proposals embracing all the relevant departments and professional interests would be acted upon in the full light of the knowledge they will submit to us.
Question No. 62 please. Time is against us.