Vol. 484 No. 2
142 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to increase the number of H Dip places in view of the large number of graduates who are unable to get places on these courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21630/97]
The higher diploma in education is offered by the education departments of Trinity College Dublin and the four universities of the National University of Ireland at Cork, Dublin, Galway and Maynooth. The current annual quota for admissions is 800.
A working group, under the aegis of the Higher Education Authority, is undertaking an in-depth review of future needs for second level teachers. This review is focusing both on total needs and on needs by subject grouping, where feasible. The working group is examining all relevant factors such as pupil numbers, pupil teacher ratios, teacher retirements and career breaks.
Pending receipt and examination of the recommendations of the working group the intake to these courses for the 1997-98 academic year will remain at 800.
