Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for raising this matter. In accordance with legislative provisions, it is a matter for the University of Limerick to appoint its chancellor. That is not the main issue the Senator is raising. The requirement for a majority vote of at least two thirds of the members of the governing authority to elect the chairperson is not new. It has been in place since 1997 under the Universities Act, with no previous issues identified. The legislation also sets out that a governing authority shall regulate, by standing orders or otherwise, its procedure and business. The Government cannot and would not wish to intervene in such matters. The legislation is clear on this matter. The Minister expects an update from the university in due course.

On the point raised by the Senator in respect of nine other external members, three of whom are to be nominated by the Minister, a Public Appointments Service process is currently in progress for the selection of ministerial nominees. One nominee will fill the immediate vacancy and the two remaining nominees will be appointed when the term of office of the current nominees ends on 31 March 2024. The assessment meeting is scheduled for next week.