Senator Laura Harmon calls for transparency and assurances for staff of Carlow College around closure
Senator Laura Harmon calls for transparency and assurances for staff of Carlow College around closure - The Labour Party
Senator Harmon, Labour spokesperson for Further and Higher Education said:
“90 staff are to be made redundant over the next two years with no assurances that South East Technological University (SETU) will reinstate these roles. It is inconceivable that a regional college of this standing would close its doors with no clear pathway forward indicated to staff.
“SETU is set to take over the campus following its closure in 2028. It is vital that SETU and the Department detail their plans for the site to the public and particularly to the staff and local people in Carlow.
“We are talking about an almost 250-year-old institution closing its doors partially due to financial strain. I welcome the expansion of technological universities but urge the Government to ensure the transition is completed in the best way possible to serve future students and keep staff and current students in the loop.
“The Carlow SETU students’ union have raised concerns over this uncertainty for its student body in relation to fees and persistent concerns over the cost of living.
“Labour members in the area have raised the vitality of the third-level sector to the activity of the town and the disproportionate impact this could have on Carlow Town’s local economy. The town relies on the employment of the college and the presence of students as a commuter town to Dublin.
“Carlow College is the second-oldest third level institution in Ireland, second only to Trinity College in Dublin. It is of utmost importance that their rich history of education in the liberal arts is conserved and allowed to thrive in its future home under SETU.
“Staff are reported to be concerned about employment opportunities going forward with many finding Carlow College to be unique in its specialised teaching jobs. 54 lecturers will lose their posts by 2028. The college and the Minister for Further and Higher Education Minister Lawless must step in and ensure clear pathways are delivered for these personnel and for the locality more widely.”