Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for appearing before the committee. The issue of providing secure funding for third level is vital for all of us on the committee. We all recognise decisive action needs to be taken in respect of it in order that we can have a secure funding system into the future.

I wish to raise two issues. The first is the role the private sector might play in contributing more to the fees of students who subsequently work within the private sectors. The second issue is the third option set out in the Cassells report on students paying back something where they have done well and have high disposable income many years after they leave.

I will ask Mr. Horgan in the first instance. The Chairman will remember we had a very interesting visit to the Munster Technological University at the Bishopstown campus. One of the things that struck me was the extent to which apprentices there were learning how to manufacture medical devices and implants for local businesses in which they will subsequently go to work. Is there a formalised mechanism in place whereby the private sector makes a contribution? Does Mr. Horgan think there is a method by which it could be expanded into the future if there is no formal mechanism?