10th February 2015
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
Speaking following concerns were raised by the TUI Cork Colleges’ Branch
around the proposed merger between CIT and IT Tralee; Sinn Féin Education
Spokesperson Deputy Jonathan O’Brien called on Minister Jan O’Sullivan to
meet with the stakeholders in order to address their concerns.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“Charging ahead with policy change in education without paying heed to the
concerns of those expected to actually deliver the changes is a hallmark of
this government.”
“The TUI members in both CIT and IT Tralee have raised legitimate concerns
around the proposed merger citing project reduced course provisions in both
institutes and a lack of clarity around the government’s financial
commitment to the process.”
“Even members of the Public Accounts Committee have expressed concerns
about the costs involved.”
“It is perfectly reasonable to express concerns about the merger if there
is the potential that the Higher Education Authority may refuse
technological university status and they will be left as two merged
under-resourced institutions.”
“
