asked the Minister for Education whether he has yet received the recommendations of the Higher Education Authority in relation to courses of study and staffing requirements at the Institute of Higher Education to be established in Limerick; and, if so, when he expects to complete his examination of such recommendations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Institute of Higher Education.
19.
Mr. O'Donnell
I have had a report from the Higher Education Authority on proposals submitted by the planning board of the institute in regard to the initial courses for the institute and the recruitment of necessary staff, and I am giving active consideration to the views and suggestions contained in that report.
I expect to be in a position to communicate a decision to the board on its proposals shortly.
Mr. O'Donnell
The question I would like the Minister to answer is the same one that the people of Limerick would like him to answer: will the college open in September in accordance with the assurances given by the Minister and his predecessor and, if so, what courses are to be provided?
As I said in reply to a supplementary question recently my concern is to ensure that when the institute gets off the ground it will do so on a proper basis. I have recommendations before me which I am considering. When these have been considered properly, I will then make my decision.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that the delay in giving the "go ahead" is causing serious concern because time is getting short in so far as advertising for staff is concerned? I ask the Minister to ensure that the matter is expedited.
Certainly, I will make my decision as early as I possibly can. As the Deputy is aware, this is a new venture and it is important that it should succeed. Its success will depend, in large measure, on its getting a proper start.