Sir, I write in support of Dr Brendan Goldsmith's call for university status for the Dublin Institute of Technology (November 29th).
The International Review Group, established in 1995 by the Minister for Education and the Higher Education Authority, reported that the institute had demonstrated a level of maturity which justified a recommendation that it be granted authority to award its own degrees, as is provided for in the DIT Act, 1992.
May I recommend that the Minister for Education take the advice of the review group which she herself established, and also provide for DIT to become a university? There is no doubt that the institute meets all of the requirements to become a university; it is a centre for learning and excellence, has carried out and provides facilities for research, and is uniquely linked with industry for the educational and professional development of its students,
As president of the professional body for qualified managers in the tourism and hospitality industry, I confirm that DIT is highly regarded. May I also say that, uniquely, the views of professional and representative organisations are considered by DIT. This must be of considerable value when developing courses for students attending DIT, which is a highly thought of institution - a university in all but name. - Yours, etc.,
President,
The Irish Hotel & Catering Institute,
Mespil House, Sussex Road, Dublin 4.