asked the Minister for Education if he intends to undertake a review of the academic staff appointments system at Maynooth University in order to eliminate the undesirable discriminatory features of the present system.

6.

asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the fact that St. Patrick's College, Maynooth is in receipt of substantial State funds, he will take steps to ensure a common system of appointments, including terms and conditions of employment, in this college and in all colleges recognised by the National University of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 and 6 together.

Academic staff appointments at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, as in the case of other university institutions, are governed by the relevant statutes and regulations. The Minister for Education has no function in relation to such appointments in accordance with existing legislation.

7.