Seamus Brennan
Question:135 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Education the reason the Royal College of Surgeons has been excluded from the free fees scheme for Irish students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10734/96]
Written Answers. - Free Fees Scheme Exclusion.
In deciding on the application of the free fees initiative I must have regard to the cost implications as well as criteria which require institutions to be recognised for the purposes of third level student support and to be part of the CAO entry system.
The Royal College of Surgeons is not at present part of the CAO entry system. The college has indicated its intention to join the CAO system but I understand that the earliest academic year in which it could participate in the system at this stage would be 1997-98.
It would also be necessary to consider the implications of extending the initiative in the context of the existing quota on medical places.
My Department is in discussions with representatives of the college regarding these issues.