Third Level Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023

Tuesday, 13 June 2023

Questions (1369)

Mairéad Farrell

Question:

1369. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in relation to the issue of precarious employment in the university sector, he will be aware that the Employment Control framework managed by the Department of Public Expenditure, National Delivery Plan Development and Reform has been in place since the austerity period, and although reviewed annually as part of the estimates process, hinders long-term planning and contributes to the use of short-term casual contracts, how does he plan to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27906/23]

Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

As the Deputy has outlined, the higher education sector currently continues to operate under the terms of an Employment Control Framework (ECF). The system operates on a number-based control approach whereby an annual ceiling for core funded posts is agreed for the sector each year. Only posts within that ceiling can involve permanent contracts. The ceiling of core funded posts has been increased over recent years in line with increases to the annual recurrent funding allocation to the sector.

My Department has committed to reforming the current ECF, recognising the issues with regard to its current structure. Significant work has been undertaken internally to scope a new framework and my Department is currently working with the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to scope out options for a revised agreement, framed within the strengthened governance framework as provided for in the HEA Act 2022. There has also been preliminary engagement with the sector and with the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform (DPENDPR) in advance of finalising the comprehensive proposal for DPENDPR approval.