Andrew Boylan
Ceist:15 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Labour if his Department have any relationship, contractual or otherwise, with any Irish third level educational institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Links with Third Level Educational Establishments.
My Department have no direct relationship with any third level educational institution. We do however provide an annual grant in aid to the College of Industrial Relations towards those activities of the college which are concerned with industrial relations. A provision of £50,000 has been included in the 1992 Estimates.
The Department also provide a subvention towards the activities of the Irish Management Institute. I mentioned that already. A provision of £100,000 has been included for 1992.
Would the Minister not accept that closer contact should be developed between the Department of Labour and our third level colleges because of the difficulties facing third level students seeking employment? When students leave third level colleges they have to go out into the wilderness to seek employment. One body should be complementing the other.
The Department of Labour provide facilities and advice for young people with regard to job placements etc.
I observe some Deputies present in the House who are naturally anxious to have their questions replied to.