Vol. 518 No. 5
207 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties facing students of the architectural technicians course at Limerick Institute of Technology who have been informed by the architects governing body that the qualification is deficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12170/00]
My Department has made inquiries with the Limerick Institute of Technology in the matter and has been informed that the B.Sc. in architectural technology has degree recognition from the Heriot-Watt University, which is the awarding authority and that the course is in line with long established degrees in architectural technology in the UK. The Limerick Institute of Technology has indicated that career prospects for graduates in this discipline are very good.
Under the Regional Technical Colleges Acts, 1992 to 1999, the management and control of Limerick Institute of Technology is the responsibility of the governing body and the director. In academic matters such as course modifications or alterations and in matters of student discipline I, as Minister, have no function under the Regional Technical College Acts. However, I propose to make arrangements for a facilitator who will meet and interview the relevant interests with a view to arriving at a resolution of the problem in relation to this course.
