Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I join the Chairman in welcoming Mr. Clark and our other guests. It is good to see this procedure commence, whereby designate chairpersons appear before committees to afford us the opportunity for an initial discussion of their future plans. It is clear from Mr. Clark's presentation, curriculum vitae and history and experience with adult education that he is eminently qualified for this role. I wish him and the new organisation well.

This is a welcome development. Yesterday, the Dáil held the Second Stage debate on the Education and Training Boards Bill, which is an important part of the reform of our education and training sector. The establishment of the QQI is also very welcome. It is a sensible move to amalgamate the four organisations that existed in the past and streamline the process of awarding educational qualifications in this country. In terms of the educational framework, the QQI will take over the role of four organisations. What will its relationship be with the universities and the NUI? What other organisations, if any, will be involved in awarding qualifications that the QQI will engage with in that regard? I understand that the NUI will continue to award its own degrees at third level. Perhaps Mr. Clark would elaborate on that.

Overall, I wish him well and look forward to engaging with him further in his new role.