University of Limerick audit
Deputy O'Dea raises an audit report alleging misleading statements by University of Limerick representatives and asks what action the Government will take. The Minister says an investigation has been carried out, recommendations are being implemented, and some issues are still under examination.
The next question is No. 7. I take Deputy O'Dea's word that he has a card. I do not doubt him.
Comment on this
The programme for Government contains a commitment to give increased "earned autonomy" to our universities. I am concerned about the autonomy the universities already have and how some of them are exercising it. Is the Minister aware of an independent audit report into the University of Limerick that was published at the weekend? It accused representatives of the university of misleading the Committee of Public Accounts, the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Department of Education and Skills and the Higher Education Authority. What action does the Government propose to take regarding the conclusions reached in that report?
Comment on this
As the Deputy probably is aware, there has been an investigation into issues in the University of Limerick following a number of protected disclosures. The investigator has done the work and the university is in the process of acting on the recommendations. I gather some issues continue be examined by the investigators and we are yet to hear from them but the university is in the process of responding to the investigation report.