Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 104: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied with the procedure set up by the governing body of UCC to investigate allegations made in relation to certain matters; the reason that person was appointed by UCC rather than by herself, as provided for in the Universities Act 1997; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40169/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The Higher Education Authority is the statutory body which advises my Department on the full range of policy issues relating to higher education and research. On foot of various representations which I received regarding management at University College Cork, I asked the Higher Education Authority for a report on the issues raised. The Chief Executive and representatives of the HEA met the Chair and representatives of the Governing Body of UCC on 24th October 2006, to discuss the issues and how they may be addressed.

Following these consultations the HEA announced that a person who is external to, and independent of UCC, is to be appointed by the Governing Body of UCC to review allegations not already inquired into by the Governing Body. This person is appointed by the Governing Body on foot of its powers and not under the sections of the Universities Act 1997 dealing with the appointment of a Visitor. The Governing Body of UCC, in agreement with the HEA have, on 13th November 2006, appointed Mr. John Malone as the independent person. Mr. Malone was, until 2004, Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture and Food.

In the case of allegations which have been, or are being, inquired into by the Governing Body, the independent person will review the Governing Body's process. The independent person will report to the Governing Body, stating if there is substance in any allegations and he can make recommendations for remedial action and/or a further process of examination if considered appropriate. An interim report is expected by 12 December 2006. The Governing Body will then report to the HEA who will advise me of any action they consider appropriate.