Vol. 478 No. 2
119 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education the criteria which will allow a regional technical college to be upgraded to an institute of technology; and if she will give a definition of an institute of technology in terms of funding and resources. [10894/97]
I have established a high level group to advise on the criteria which would be applied to the redesignation of a regional technical college as an institute of technology, including the devolution of responsibility to colleges within the technological sector in relation to the award of qualifications, at various levels, within a national certification framework. The high level group will also advise on the most appropriate means whereby institutions would be independently evaluated in relation to such criteria.
In line with existing practices, funding and resources for any college redesignated as an institute of technology would be determined on an annual basis having regard to the institute's proposals in its annual programmes and budget and the overall funding available.
