Jim O'Keeffe
Question:93 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will implement the 1997 Government decision to establish a west Cork third level campus in Skibbereen, County Cork. [14590/02]
Written Answers. - Third Level Institutions.
As the Deputy is aware, in 2000 my predecessor announced plans to strengthen the education base in regions which are not well served at present. He also wanted to establish effective links with higher and further education institutions in order to address the related problems of non-completion at second level education and low participation rates in higher education.
Following further consideration of the matter it was decided last year to proceed with plans to develop outreach centres in Wexford and Kilkenny. The position has already been outlined to the Deputy in October 2001 and last January. The proposals for similar initiatives in other areas, including Skibbereen, will be reviewed in the light of the experience gained from the development of the centres in Wexford and Kilkenny and in the context of the resources which are available.