Need for Ireland to develop universities in the regions

IRELAND will fall behind other developed countries unless more universities are created in the regions, an international education expert has warned.

Speaking at a forum hosted by Waterford Institute of Technology, Professor John L Davies said the Government must realise the importance of such action to develop research and development, and to aid economic growth.

His advice comes as another international expert continues an assessment of WIT’s submission seeking university status. The report of Dr Jim Port is expected to advise Education Minister Mary Hanafin on the merits of the application, but it is not clear when she will make any announcement.