asked the Minister for Education the arrangements made for the recognition by the Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences of NCEA certificate and diploma examinations in medical laboratory sciences due to be taken by students in the summer of 1979 and if the Dublin Institute of Technology were given permission to negotiate a separate agreement for recognition of this examination outside of NCEA with the Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences while similar permission was denied to Cork and Galway Regional Technical Colleges.

Discussions have taken place between the NCEA and the Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences, London, concerning the question of recongnition by the institute of qualifications in medical laboratory sciences to be awarded by the NCEA in 1979. I am aware also that the College of Technology, Kevin Street, Dublin have made arrangements with the Institute of Medical Laboratory Sciences in connections with the recognition of qualifications awarded in respect of courses pursued in that college. No question arises of permission being necessary for such arrangements.

Discussions have taken place between my Department, the Regional Technical Colleges, Cork and Galway, and NCEA in relation to the award of qualifications to students following the relevant courses in these colleges. Further proposals recently received from the Board of Management of Cork RTC which would also have relevance for the students in Galway RTC are at present under consideration.