asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to reports (details supplied) to the effect that due to lack of finance there is a major cut-back in the number of courses at UCG; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am not aware that there is any cut-back in the number of courses as UCG. I have been advised by an tÚdarás um Ard-Oideachas that the UCG accounts for the current financial period show a substantial deficit arising mainly from salary and wage increases. Arrangements to meet the deficit are at present under consideration.

May I take it that there will be no cut-back?

I cannot give the Deputy that undertaking since I am not in charge.

Serious consideration has been given to this in Galway. Then I may take it that there will be no cut-back?

I cannot give the Deputy that guarantee since I am not in a position to do so.

Would the Minister agree to An tÚdarás's suggestion that the university colleges are under-financed and need an increase in the grants for fees immediately?

An tÚdarás um Ard-Oideachas, like many other bodies, are stating that they are under-financed. I deal with these matters when the cases are put to me. I do not consider they are under-financed given the financial stringency under which we are operating at the moment.