Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I join other Members in commending the Cathaoirleach and all staff of the Seanad on their stewardship during the past term and I look forward to working with them in the temporary premises in the autumn.

I echo some of the points made by Senator Byrne in respect of the Higher Education Authority report published today which shows the lamentably slow progress being made on gender equality in higher education institutions. I come from Galway. Only six of a total of 64 professors in NUI Galway are women. That is not acceptable in terms of gender equality but it is also very notable that the report and commentary makes clear that this is costing us in terms of excellence.That is a very clear and important message. Equality is not simply about the individual; equality is a foundation for excellence. We need to make robust efforts in the academic area, and in all areas of public life, to ensure we are delivering equality. We must keep a close eye on and scrutinise - as is committed to in the programme for Government - the issue of equality.

I am also responding to my esteemed colleague, Senator Leyden. I want to make it clear that we invited all parties to attend the photo opportunity on the plinth at Leinster House. Members from Fianna Fáil were absolutely invited.