Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2007
368 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on setting up an independent body to adjudicate over allegations of sexual harassment and malpractice of students in third level colleges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22438/07]
View answerI do not believe that there is a need to set up an independent body on the lines suggested by the Deputy. Our higher education institutions are autonomous bodies which have statutory and other grievance procedures. The statutory procedures provide for appointment of an independent person or persons as appropriate.
Of course, where allegations are of a criminal nature they should be reported to the Garda authorities.
