Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I have asked the HEA to get them to me as early as possible, that is, this side of Christmas. Then it would be a matter - if I can anticipate the Deputy's question - for all of the institutes, specifically Waterford which has been to the forefront in this matter. The Deputy knows the history. The institute in Waterford was redesignated and as a consequence of that decision, others sought similar designations and the entire sector was lifted.

In the context of the problem in the south east, as it manifested itself recently and as was said at the Cabinet, the Hunt report addressed this issue in general and stated a technological university could and possibly would be an option, provided the institutes coming together changed the substance of the activity in the new entity, as distinct from simply changing the name. That is where we are. Let us see what the criteria specify and take it from there.

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