Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jun 1992

Vol. 421 No. 6

Written Answers. - University Status.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

76 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education the way in which an existing third level institution or university project group can aspire to university status; if he will support such a development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mr. S. Brennan)

The recognition of any existing third level institution or of the aspirations of a university project group must of necessity be considered in the context of the general provision for third-level education in Ireland in both the university and non-university sectors. Factors such as the range and levels of discipline's provided, academic scholarship, research capabilities and centres of excellence viewed from a national perspective would have to be taken into account as well as the needs of Irish industry for skilled personnel at technician and higher technician level.

Any application seeking university status would in the first instance be forwarded by my Department to the Higher Education Authority which has the statutory function of advising my Department on the development of higher education in Ireland. The question of my support or otherwise would not arise until a full and comprehensive review had been undertaken.