Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 3

Written Answers. - Upgrading of Regional Technical Colleges.

Dermot Ahern

Question:

158 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Education the reason she has not granted Dundalk Regional Technical College institute of technology status with its additional powers to award degrees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2819/97]

Micheál Martin

Question:

188 Mr. Martin asked the Minister for Education if she has set up the expert group to establish criteria by which regional technical colleges are upgraded to the status of an institute of technology; if so, the terms of reference of the expert group; the timeframe within which the group will have to report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3161/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 188 together.

The Government has arranged for the publication of proposals from TEASTAS — the Irish National Certification Authority — for a national qualifications framework. The TEASTAS report, which I welcome, sets out proposals which will facilitate the growth and evolution of the colleges in the regional technical college sector. I am currently finalising arrangements for the establishment of a high level group to examine the issues involved. I hope to complete this work shortly and will then be in a position to make a more detailed statement.