The report recognises that universities have contributed significantly to the achievements of Irish society, with a resource base significantly less than many of our international competitors. The report also validates the key role that universities will play in national economic and social recovery.

The report identifies the need for the restructuring of management practices in universities, to develop flexible operating practices so that Irish universities can compete with the best internationally. UCC welcomes these developments.

The report also formally recognises that, unlike other parts of the public sector, Irish universities are competing in the global market for the brightest students, the best staff and highly-competitive research funding.

UCC welcomes the acknowledgement of the extensive additional public and private investment required if Irish universities are to compete successfully on an international stage. UCC looks forward to exploring these funding options with the government.

The report recognises that major changes in society will require reform in the way that universities deliver to society. UCC will continue to respond to the needs of society by facilitating life-long learning, distance learning and part-time learning.

In recent years UCC has proactively engaged in the Higher Education reform agenda. The UCC Strategic Plan 2009-2012 is substantively aligned with the majority of the recommendations contained in the report of the National Strategy Group on Higher Education and a significant number of the recommendations contained in the report have already been or are in the process of being implemented by UCC.

UCC looks forward to working with Government to deliver the recommendations contained in the report.

See Irish Universities Association Statement:  http://www.iua.ie/

<<Previous ItemNext Item>>

« Back to 2011 Press Releases