Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 7 Mar 1990

Vol. 396 No. 7

Written Answers. - Limerick School of Art and Design.

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

54 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that art and design courses have been cut by one year at the Limerick School of Art and Design; if this will be disadvantageous to students who will be competing with students from EC countries where such courses are substantially longer and in some cases double the length; and if any consultations were held with college tutors, students and/or parents prior to the decision being implemented.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

Following discussions between my Department, the National Council for Educational Awards and the college authorities, it was agreed that the one year certificate courses in visual education should be discontinued in all of the VEC third level colleges. The position generally in relation to art and design courses in VEC colleges is that national certificate level courses are of two years duration and diploma courses are of three years duration. These are similar to the duration of courses at the same level in other disciplines and do not compare unfavourably with courses internationally having regard to the entry requirements and the level of award.