Dick Spring
Question:62 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Education if she will publish a White Paper on third level education, other than university education.
Written Answers. - White Paper and Third Level Education.
The publishing of a White Paper on non-university third level education would not be appropriate at this time due to a number of important initiatives which are ongoing.
I have already announced that legislation is currently being prepared to give the VEC colleges a more clearly defined basis and also to expand and enhance the scope of their operations.
I am also referring in particular to the interdepartmental committee which is examining the provision of student places at third level. I am referring also to a committee which was established to examine third level courses which lead to awards by the NCEA and other bodies outside the universities. The draft report of the latter committee has been recently circulated to interested parties for their views.
In addition to the above I should mention a report on courses in outcentres which is being prepared by the National Council for Educational Awards and which I expect by the end of February.