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

I am disappointed with the Taoiseach’s reply because it kicks the can down the road by referring the whole report to the Oireachtas committee whose deliberations will not have concluded in advance of the budget and the key estimates’ formation and allocation. There are three options, each of which calls for increased State funding. The third level sector is in financial crisis. The Committee of Public Accounts last year identified some institutes of technology as being in dire financial straits. I do not want to name them here and create further embarrassment for them but they are in trouble. It is a question of priorities and prioritisation. We nailed our colours to the mast on this in our manifesto and have subsequently said there has to be a direct increase in allocation to the third level sector. Otherwise we are storing up big trouble for the country.

I asked the Taoiseach if he accepts the recommendations of the Cassells report. Does the Government accept them? There has been no statement from the Government, the Taoiseach or the Minister for Education and Skills other than that it is being sent to the committee. Does the Government accept the recommendations of the Cassells report and will they be reflected in an increase in the forthcoming budget?

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