Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I know that, but I have a proposal on the Order of Business. The proposal in primary legislation, that in order to become a technological university there must be a mandatory merger of institutes of technology, has caused significant disquiet and opposition throughout the country. The issue has not been dealt with properly at a local level. The Bill should be deferred until after the general election, at which time it can be deliberated upon properly and there can be proper consultation with all stakeholders.

The Bill will dramatically change the nature of regional third level education in this country. Regional colleges were established with a very clear mandate in terms of employment and the provision of courses that would facilitate economic growth in the regions. There is a real fear that the original purpose and objectives of regional technical colleges, now institutes of technology, will be diluted over time.

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