Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 427: To ask the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 142 of 1 November 2006, the reason AIT was unsuccessful; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20892/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Deputy's question relates to the establishment of a School of Podiatry in Ireland. As outlined in my responses to the Deputy's previous questions on the matter, responsibility for its establishment, including its location, is a matter in the final instance for the Department of Education and Science.

In January 2007 the Higher Education Authority (HEA) issued a call for proposals for a BSc in Podiatry programme to Universities and Institutes of Technology (including Athlone Institute of Technology) and the RCSI. The call for proposals provided that any higher education institution submitting a bid should work in partnership with a health care provider for the establishment of a School of Podiatry.

Proposals were evaluated by an independent international group of assessors established by the HEA and their evaluation was informed by the following set criteria — curriculum content, clinical training, strategy and funding. Following completion of this evaluation process, the school was awarded to the National University of Ireland Galway. As provided in the successful proposal a Podiatry Clinic will be developed by the HSE in Galway University Hospitals –Merlin Park to work in partnership with the School to provide for the clinical education and training components of the programme.

I am advised that feedback has been provided to Athlone Institute of Technology by the HEA with a follow-up meeting offered to the Institute.