asked the Minister for Education if in paragraph 6.6. of the Action Plan in Education, she envisages a diminution of the status of regional technical colleges in that this paragraph places emphasis on certificate and diploma courses rather than degree courses.

What is envisaged in paragraph 6.6 of the programme for action is not a diminution in the status of regional technical colleges but rather an emphasis on their primary purpose which is that of providing for technical and higher technician qualifications, and also for apprenticeship training.

Paragraph 6.6 relates to the emphasis on certificate and diploma courses rather than degree courses. Is the Minister of State aware that at present many regional technical colleges are operating degree courses? Is he aware that many students who leave with degrees from regional technical colleges are finding successful job placements? Does he agree that the interpretation of paragraph 6.6 leads one to believe that there will be a diminution in the status of the degree giving facilities and faculties in the regional technical colleges?

I gave an assurance in my reply that it is not intended in any way to reduce the status or the importance of the regional technical colleges. I accept the point made about the degree courses. It is embodied in paragraph 6.6 that there will be a recognition of the whole purpose for which regional technical colleges were set up. It is the Minister's intention to promote in every way possible the role of the regional technical colleges.

Because of paragraph 6.6 there is great disquiet among the boards of managment, students and lecturers in the regional technical colleges that what the Minister envisages is a diminution in their role. I am glad the Minister of State has said there will be no such diminution in their role and that the degree courses already obtainable there will be augmented.

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We need a more integrated approach.