Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2019
327. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the appropriateness of university marketing activities here that go beyond providing information to potential students such as paid promotional signage at sporting grounds or theatres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19209/19]
View answerThe Deputy may wish to note that under the statutory framework set out in the Universities Act, 1997 universities are independent, autonomous and self-governed legal entities and are, therefore, responsible for all matters relating to their day-to-day operations and activities. Section 13 of the Universities Act, 1997 states that in furthering its objects and development, universities may 'collaborate with educational, business, professional, trade union, Irish language, cultural, artistic, community and other interests, both inside and outside the State, to further the objects of the university.'
In that context, the management and appropriateness of marketing and promotional activities such as set out in the Deputy's question are matters, in the first instance, for the individual institutions themselves. The performance of these roles are, of course, subject to detailed governance, oversight and accountability requirements.
