Question:
67 Mr. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education if he will outline the proposals Ireland has in mind to take advantage of the Maastricht Treaty provision that the EC shall contribute to the development of quality education.
Written Answers. - Quality Education Development.
I intend that Ireland will contribute fully within the framework of the Education Council in developing specific proposals for Community action in the specific areas. It will also adopt a positive approach to any initiatives which the Commission may take following the coming into force of the Treaty on 1 January 1993.
With regard to the provision in the Treaty on Economic and Social Cohesion I am developing a set of education/ training proposals for which I expect to get support from the new Social Fund. These will include existing ESF-aided courses suitably adapted and expanded together with a number of other courses not at present in receipt of EC assistance. These will be developed to provide well-qualified and highly skilled persons to meet the needs of industry and economic development. I also plan to develop proposals for upgrading the skills and qualifications of the staff in schools and colleges.
In addition I will seek a considerable increase in the current level of assistance from the European Regional Development Fund for the enhancement of the education infrastructure.