Under the terms of the Regional Technical Colleges Acts, matters relating to examinations are a statutory function of the management and governing bodies of the institutes of technology. In light of the statutory position, the matter in question falls to be dealt with by the institute in the first instance. This position has been reiterated in previous responses to parliamentary questions and in communications with the institute.
I understand the governing body considered the O'Hanlon report at a special meeting held for this purpose in October and decided to deal with the matter in accordance with legal advice conveyed to the body at that meeting. I also understand that the matter will be further discussed by the governing body at its meeting next week. I understand that the institute will be in communication with my Department following that meet ing. I will consider the position further at that stage.