850. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science whether new lecturing and research contracts for faculty working in the technological university sector will be in place before March 2025. [42798/24]

The Deputy may be aware of the report published in 2022 by the OECD following review of technological university academic career paths, contracts and organisation in Ireland. The review concluded that the development of a career model framework and attendant employment contract is an urgent reform necessary for the successful transformation of the TU sector. The report includes reference to staff on existing research contracts.

Since the publication of that report my department has been working to support the implementation of it's recommendations including extensive engagement with the sector in establishing senior management teams within each Universities to replace interim management teams put in place for the establishment phase, that work is ongoing.

My Department is working with the TUs on the development of draft inputs towards a national framework which specifies the responsibilities and performance for professorship roles in TUs. This work is drawing on the recommendations and principles of the 2022 OECD report. A consultation phase involving wider stakeholders is currently in planning by my Department.

I remain committed to introducing the recommendations of the OECD report, including professorship grades and a revised academic contract in Technological Universities, however it is important that this is done in a considered way, working through the complex range of interconnected issues.