Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:83 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science whether he has satisfied himself with the adequacy of third level places up to the year 2000 and beyond; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21678/97]
Written Answers. - Higher Education Places.
The report of the steering committee on the future development of higher education, which was published in June 1995, sets out the parameters in the growth in higher education. This report was accepted by the then Government as a benchmark for the future planning of the sector, subject to regular review.
The first review of the steering committee's report is currently being carried out by a study group established under the chairmanship of Mr. Dónal de Buitléir. The study group's remit is to advise on the appropriate level of provision of education and training places for school leavers and others. I understand that the study group's report will be available early next year, at which stage I will consider its findings.
As the Deputy will be aware, I have already provided extra funding to create in excess of 1,300 additional places this year in software courses at degree and technician level and technology courses at national certificate level. The Government has also recently announced the establishment of the £250 million Education Technology Investment Fund. One of the objectives of the fund is to develop new areas of activities in our institutions, especially where emerging skills needs have already been identified. The additional investment of £60 million targeted for the skills area will facilitate the provision of additional places in skills needs areas.