Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 205: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the application of Waterford Institute of Technology for upgrading to university status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10895/07]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 206: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when the Port report in regard to the upgrading of Waterford Institute of Technology to university status will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10896/07]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 207: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the discussions she has had with the Higher Education Authority in relation to the application from Waterford Institute of Technology for university status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10897/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 205 to 207, inclusive, together.

Dr. Jim Port has been asked to assess the submission made by the Governing Body of Waterford Institute of Technology having regard to (i) national strategy for the development of Irish higher education; (ii) implications for regional development in the South East in the context of the National Spatial Strategy and (iii) any likely implications for the overall structure of higher education in Ireland.

While I have not set a specific deadline for the completion of his work, I do expect to receive Dr. Port's advice in the first half of this year. I understand that Dr. Port has been in contact with the management of Waterford Institute of Technology. My Department's contact with the Higher Education Authority in this matter to date has related solely to the engagement of Dr. Port.