The Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) notes the announcement of the partnership between Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and Queens University Belfast (QUB) to establish a University College. We can appreciate QUB's enthusiasm for linking with DkIT, which has played a critical role in developing the region’s learning landscape. Vitally important industry and community links have been forged over time and DkIT has supported innovation that benefits enterprises in the region.
Moreover, the TUI locally has long campaigned, including using industrial action, to ensure that this institute achieves university status for the benefit of its students, staff and the northeast region. Therefore, on the face of it, we welcome a development which aligns with the union's long-sought after goal for this institute.
That being said, at all stages of this development, we will insist that the terms and conditions of employment of our members are absolutely protected. In addition, there must be meaningful consultation and timely communication, and where concerns arise, these must be addressed as a matter of urgency. Where our expectations are not met, arising issues will be immediately addressed by the TUI.
Separately, IADT, now the only remaining institute of technology outside of existing technological university or planned university college projects, must be facilitated in achieving university status and the appropriate funding and resources must be provided to make this happen.