Sir, – The publication by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) of a discussion document on the future of the third- level sector is a blatant attempt to influence an ongoing consultation process (Front page, January 16th).
This is not the first time the HEA has gone on a solo run. A report by international experts, commissioned by the HEA last year, was largely discredited by Irish education stakeholders, including the Minister for Education and Skills, who said he disagreed with a number of the report’s findings.
Once again the HEA has published a document designed to influence, through the media, the outcome of the ongoing consultation process, between the higher education institutes and the Minister for Education and Skills, on the future of the third-level sector. What will be the response of the Minister this time?
The Teachers’ Union of Ireland is very concerned that the changes proposed in the HEA document would have a huge impact on our members in the Institute of Technology sector. It is an uncertain and confusing time for workers across the public service and this ill-timed act by the HEA will add more uncertainty and lead to further stress and concern for our members in the institutes of technology. – Yours, etc,