Vol. 480 No. 8
118 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation governing the technological sector as indicated in his statement of 18 July 1997; and if so, when this legislation will be published. [15263/97]
I announced on 18 July that my objective is to develop a framework for the structured development of institutions in the technological sector to address changing local and national demands, while ensuring the maintenance of the complementary third-level systems of university and technological education. I further stated that the diversity of institutions and the separate missions of the two broad sectors will be maintained so as to ensure maximum flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of students and to the wide variety of social and economic requirements.
A consultation process is now under way and I hope, following the conclusion of this process, to publish legislation as early as possible next year which will provide for the co-ordinated development of the technological sector and enhance its contribution to national and regional development. I am giving this matter priority but, pending the conclusion of the consultative process, I cannot be more precise about the timing of the publication of the legislation.
