Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The issue of academic career precarity is and will remain an important element of the work of my Department. As part of this work, my officials engage with all stakeholders, including trade unions and Higher Education Institutions, on the issues that are raised in the charter and in IFUT’s recent report on precarious employment. It is however noted that the Charter itself would seem to be intended as a guide or set of principles for IFUT members and branches rather than as a document for institutions to sign up to.

In terms of the wider question of precarity, it is important to stress that a number of measures are already being implemented that will help to address precarious employment. These include the provision of around €198 million in additional funding to the Higher Education sector through Budget 2024. This will help to build capacity and to ensure the sector is funded on a sustainable basis and, among other things, will allow more staff to be recruited and provide additional scope to help address the issue of precarious work.

In addition, a considerable amount of work has been undertaken to develop a revised staffing framework to replace the current Employment Control Framework (ECF). Work is continuing on this new approach which will better align with the realities that the higher education sector now faces. Further, an uplift of some 1,500 core-funded posts under the current ECF was announced in the summer which will facilitate Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in recruiting more permanent staff.

Even as all stakeholders work to ensure that there is optimal security and stability for staff, there is a need to recognise the autonomy of universities and other institutions and their legitimate need for an appropriate staffing mix that supports a high-performing sector.