Vol. 484 No. 2
59 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Education and Science the consultation, if any, he has had, or will have, with industry regarding the way in which private sector contributions to the technological fund should be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21701/97]
As indicated in my speech at the launch of the scientific and technological education (investment) fund on 6 November, I and my Department have held a series of meetings over the last few months with bodies in education and industry in order to listen to their concerns and invite their suggestions. It is my intention and that of the Government that this form of consultation will continue.
To give formal effect to this process, the Tánaiste and I will be establishing a new business, education and training partnership which includes a business/education partnership forum, an expert group on future skills, with a management implementation group.
The draft legislation to establish the fund, which I have presented to the Seanad, provides that private sector donations may be made subject to any conditions as may be specified by donors, provided that such conditions are not inconsistent with the functions of the Minister for Education and Science or the Minister for Finance under the Bill. This will enable private sector donors, if they so wish, to specify how their contributions to the fund should be spent.
