Development proposals in respect of Waterford RTC currently under consideration in my Department relate to, (1) accommodation matters and (2) new course proposals.
The position with regard to accommodation is that a further phase of the development programme for the college is at an advanced stage of planning. A detailed submission which will include revised development plans will be made by the City of Waterford Vocational Education Committee in the near future.
My Department will be in touch in the near future with the college authorities regarding new course proposals.
With regard to overall developments there are no plans to upgrade the college to university status. The Deputy will be aware, however, that new legislation for regional technical colleges is currently before the Dáil. This will leave the colleges within the vocational education committee sector while giving them autonomy in day to day management.