Joe Walsh
Question:337 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Education if she will include the Dublin Institute of Technology in the Universities Bill, 1996. [1158/97]
Written Answers. - Proposed Legislation.
The Universities Bill, 1996, is being considered by the Select Committee on Social Affairs at present. I do not intend to support amendments there that the Dublin Institute of Technology be included as a university in the Universities Bill, 1996.
I consider that section 9 of the Universities Bill, 1996, will provide a mechanism by which an institution can attain university status. This is the first time that a formal mechanism by which an institution may become a university is being placed on a statutory basis. If, in the future, moving to university status enhances the mission of the Dublin Institute of Technology, I am pleased that section 9 of the Universities Bill, 1996, provides an appropriate mechansim.