568. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if there is a national or Government policy to grant all college photography contracts to one company (details supplied) or is it individual third level institutions/universities that set tender criteria. [45811/24]

572. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if there is a national or Government policy to grant all college photography contracts to one company (details supplied); and if not, if is it individual third level institutions and universities that set tender criteria. [45764/24]

573. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he has concerns with regard to a monopoly forming if only one company is getting the opportunity to provide a service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45768/24]

574. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the measures that can be introduced to ensure a fair and competitive marketplace in the supply of photography services in Irish colleges; if a national framework will be established to oversee open and fair competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45770/24]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 568, 572, 573 and 574 together.

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are autonomous under the relevant legislation.  This autonomy includes the development and implementation of policies, procedures, day to day management and the administration of their academic affairs.

As such neither I nor my Department have a direct role in these matters.