Vol. 478 No. 7
148 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Education the progress, if any, being made in implementing the programme for the upgrading of Waterford regional technical college to institute of technology status; and when the process will be completed. [12041/97]
164 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education the moneys, if any, she will make available in the current year for the upgrading of Waterford regional technical college to the status of institute of technology; the estimated cost of the transition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12181/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 164 together.
I have today signed the statutory order to change the title of Waterford regional technical college to Waterford Institute of Technology. Detailed discussions are ongoing between senior officials from my Department and the authorities of the college in relation to the proposed changes for the college. The college has produced and subsequently revised a report outlining its programme for change to the Department and this document is being considered at present.
A further meeting with the college authorities will be held at an early date in order to progress the implementation of the proposed developments for the college.
Capital and recurrent costs arising from the proposed changes for the college will be dealt in the context of the budget allocation process over a number of years. Funding will be determined on an annual basis having regard to the college's proposals in its annual programmes and budget submission and the overall resources available.
