Vol. 567 No. 2
193 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if the autonomous responsibilities delegated to universities under the Universities Act 1997 means they can effectively obey the laws of the land when it suits them. [14004/03]
194 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that SIPTU has called a vote of no confidence in the human resources department at DCU; and if his Department intends to monitor the ongoing breakdown in staff relations and disputes over non-compliance with the Universities Act 1997. [14005/03]
195 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason he refuses to intervene in documented cases of intimidation and bribery of students, financial irregularities and an unfair dismissal as upheld by a rights commissioner, when it is obvious that DCU management's undertakings to engage with these serious issues have not been carried out. [14006/03]
196 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to a case (details supplied); if there is action he can take in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14007/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 to 196, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy is aware, the Universities Act, 1997 confers autonomous statutory responsibilities on universities in the day to day management of their affairs. The conduct of staff relations is a matter for each university, in accordance with section 25 of the Act. In this context it would not be appropriate for me to comment on or intervene in operational management or individual disciplinary issues within a particular university such as the issue raised by the Deputy. However, I have been informed by the Higher Education Authority that the university in question is satisfied that it is properly discharging its responsibilities under the Universities Act 1997 and is conducting its affairs at all times in conformity with the laws of the land.
