I propose to take Questions Nos. 205 to 207, inclusive, together.
Dr. Jim Port has been asked to assess the submission made by the Governing Body of Waterford Institute of Technology having regard to (i) national strategy for the development of Irish higher education; (ii) implications for regional development in the South East in the context of the National Spatial Strategy and (iii) any likely implications for the overall structure of higher education in Ireland.
While I have not set a specific deadline for the completion of his work, I do expect to receive Dr. Port's advice in the first half of this year. I understand that Dr. Port has been in contact with the management of Waterford Institute of Technology. My Department's contact with the Higher Education Authority in this matter to date has related solely to the engagement of Dr. Port.