Under the Regional Technical Colleges Acts, 1992 and 1994 the management and direction of Carlow regional technical college is a function of the director and the governing body. I understand from the management of Carlow regional technical college that some difficulties have arisen since the beginning of this academic year with regard to temporary accommodation, staffing and the non-pay budget. Following discussions with the college, my Department is awaiting a full report from the management on these matters so that the issues involved can be considered fully. It is also understood from the college authorities that staff illnesses at the beginning of the session led to a shortage of lecturing in Engineering but that temporary staff to cover this aspect have been appointed and students will receive additional hours to cover the earlier shortfall.
As already indicated in my press statement of 13 January 1994 a sum of £4 million was allocated under the 1994 to 1999 European Regional Development Fund programme for capital developments at the college. This sum remains available and my Department has conveyed approval to the college authorities to proceed with the planning and design of a learning resource centre, a catering and services building, improvements to existing buildings and upgrading site infrastructure including parking, access and services.
