Vol. 457 No. 8
78 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Education the discussions, if any, she has had with the Higher Education Authority in respect of the quota set for intake to higher education courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16290/95]
I understand the Deputy is referring to higher diploma in education courses. The Higher Education Authority has the statutory responsibility to advise me on the demand and need for higher education. The authority set up a committee to review the demand and need for second level teachers. The review committee, having examined all the relevant factors, proposed that the intake quota for Higher Diploma in Education courses in 1995-96 should be 800. The Higher Education Authority accepted this proposal and recommended it to me. Following examination by my Department I accepted the authority's recommendation. I am satisfied this is the most appropriate approach having regard to all the circumstances. I will of course keep this matter under review in liaison with the Higher Education Authority.
