Industrial relations and lack of financial support behind delay

INDUSTRIAL relations issues and a lack of financial support are among the key reasons for the delay in an application for a Technological University of the South East (TUSEI), according to Institute of Technology Carlow President Dr Patricia Mulcahy.

Speaking following the establishment of the Munster Technological University in late May, Dr Mulcahy said: ‘We acknowledge that they (Tralee and Cork) have been on this journey for over eight years, working collaboratively and diligently to achieve this outcome, while overcoming many challenges. The management of both Carlow and Waterford are encouraged to overcome the challenges that are currently facing our South East consortium to ensure the delivery of a TU for our regions.’

Dr Mulcahy said the consortium continues to implement mitigation strategies for the top two ‘high risk severity risks’ identified during the Independent Professional Risk Identification for Technological University for South East Ireland (TUSEI) – financial sustainability and industrial relations.

‘Investment in the set-up of the new university is required to address the financial challenges that have impeded the progress of this project to date. In the case of TUSEI the financial challenges are significant, both in addressing legacy issues and integrated university academic models. Considerable consultation has been undertaken with internal and external stakeholders on these issues and solutions to these and related matters should not be insurmountable.’

Dr Mulcahy said some politicians, unlike other TDs and councillors, have not contacted Carlow IT about the process, adding that she will not discuss confidential matters in public discourse. A WIT spokesperson said: ‘The institute welcomes the recent announcement of Ireland’s second technological university.

‘Government funding announced last year will help realise our vision for a new higher education institute of international standing, an organisation with a new emphasis, structure, and activities. The two institutes collectively continue to prioritise the development of a technological university of international standing that will deliver for the south east. Prior to submitting an application it is important that we put structures in place that will ensure a successful international panel review and swift designation as a TU.’