Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 6

Ceisteanna — Questions Written Answers. - Third Level Places in St. Patrick's, Drumcondra.

Máirín Quill

Question:

116 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Education if, in respect of the 300 extra places provided in 1993 in the third level sector at St. Patricks, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, for courses leading to DCU degrees and in view of the fact that entrants to this course did not go through the Central Applications Office admission system, she will give the criteria used for the allocation of these places; the way in which the student selection was made; if these places will be allocated through the CAO in future; if any of these places were reserved for mature or second chance students; and the overall policy in relation to selection of students for this particular course in this particular college.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the new BA in Humanities programme, leading to a degree from Dublin City University, which commenced in St. Patrick's College in October 1993. Because arrangements for this programme were only finalised during the summer, it was not possible to include the course in the CAO system this year, but I understand that it will be included from 1994.

The selection procedures for the allocation of places on this course were the same as for third-level courses generally, that is specified minimum entry requirements together with the common third level points system. Mature applicants were selected by interview. I understand that in all, 120 places were filled on this course of which about 30 were filled by mature students.

The overall policy in relation to the selection of students for this course is a matter for St. Patrick's College and Dublin City University.