Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 368: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his views on setting up an independent body to adjudicate over allegations of sexual harassment and malpractice of students in third level colleges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22438/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I do not believe that there is a need to set up an independent body on the lines suggested by the Deputy. Our higher education institutions are autonomous bodies which have statutory and other grievance procedures. The statutory procedures provide for appointment of an independent person or persons as appropriate.

Of course, where allegations are of a criminal nature they should be reported to the Garda authorities.