Vol. 518 No. 6
585 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the current position in regard to his examination of the possibility of introducing a preliminary third level course in life sciences as a means of easing up the current pressure for university places in pharmacy, medicine and veterinary science; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12888/00]
In its final report and recommendations, the Commission on the Points System recommended that the key bodies and institutions involved in policy-making on health care training, for example the Medical Council, the universities, the Higher Education Authority and the Department of Health and Children, should set up a committee to explore the issue of introducing a preliminary third level course in life sciences as a prerequisite for entry into the health care courses.
The commission acknowledged that the proposal would have cost implications and agreed with the Higher Education Authority that all the implications of a change of this nature would have to be fully examined with full consultation with all those involved.
I am currently considering the commission's report and planning for an implementation strategy is under way. In relation to this specific recommendation, I am requesting the Higher Education Authority to establish a committee as proposed.
