Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his question. As he will know, postgraduate programmes are comprised of a range of elements designed to further the training and development of students. In particular, PhD students, in addition to conducting research, participate in other activities to develop generic and transferable skills. These activities are, and always have been, regarded as an integral part of their training and typically include teaching. Development of these skills is important in equipping postgraduate students for their future careers, including for academic positions. The teaching contribution assists in the acquisition of transferable skills, as described in the published national framework for doctoral education and the PhD graduate skills statement provided by the Irish Universities Association.

PhD students may contribute to teaching, often at a level of up to five hours per week, in the course of their studies. Such duties are commonly part of their terms and constitute an important element of their skills development programme. A range of activities can be included under their teaching contribution, such as taking tutorial groups, demonstrating at practical classes, co-supervising undergraduate projects and student mentoring. Hours may be included that are spent in class preparation, advising on or monitoring student projects and correcting projects, notebooks or essays. This will vary according to the particular school and discipline. Where postgraduate students are in receipt of funding awards, participation in such activities can be considered a valuable activity within the career of the award holder. Although contributing to teaching is an integral part of the training of a research master's or PhD student, the core component of research programmes across all universities is the advancement of knowledge through original research, which must remain the primary focus of the activity of research students.

Where individual issues arise, these fall to individual institutions to address, consistent with the terms of the framework and skills statement. However, given the issue raised by the Deputy and the wide range of potential situations reflecting the diversity of institutions, disciplines, course fees and, in some cases, the relationship with research funding awards and stipends, I intend to bring together a group to engage with the Higher Education Authority, the Union of Students in Ireland, USI, research funders and all other relevant stakeholders to seek advice on this matter and consider any issues arising. There needs to be a common rule set relating to this issue. I accept there is a body of work to do. I am happy to do that work.

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