Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 May 2005
141 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is alarmed at a recent OECD report which suggested that the institutes of technology, of which there are five in the BMW region, should be downgraded; the status this report has; the future policy on such colleges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17683/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recent OECD Review of Higher Education in Ireland made a number of far reaching recommendations regarding the role of the institutes of technology within a future unified strategy for the higher education system. Far from attempting to downgrade the institutes, the report emphasises the great strengths that the sector has brought to the Irish system. The differentiated focus of the institute of technology and university sectors has been a key factor in successfully meeting the varying needs of students, the economy and society. The report advocates the maintenance of this diversified approach as part of a unified system in which a strong emphasis is laid on inter-institutional collaboration and this will form the cornerstone of future policy in this regard.
The Government recently considered and approved the broad general thrust of the reform agenda as outlined in the report and, in that context, I announced my intention to bring forward legislation as soon as possible providing for the early designation of the institutes under the Higher Education Authority. This will facilitate the creation of a unified strategic and management framework for the sector. My Department and I are also engaged in an extensive process of consultation with stakeholders on their reactions to the report. Their inputs will feed into the development of a comprehensive response to the recommendations of the report.
