Munster Technological University plans shelved

PLANS for the creation of a proposed new third-level campus in Ennis have been scuppered after Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) abandoned its plans to establish the Munster Technological University (MTU).
In January 2012, LIT announced a proposal by Cork Institute of Technology (CIT), Institute of Technology Tralee (IT Tralee) and LIT to establish MTU.
This would form the largest higher education institution in the region, with campuses in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Clare and Tipperary and an initial enrolment of over 24,000 students.
However, LIT has reviewed its future position in the higher-education landscape and recently decided to prioritise collaboration with partners in the regional cluster of LIT, University of Limerick, Mary Immaculate College and IT Tralee and to pause further development of an earlier proposal to apply for designation for MTU.
Last April, LIT assumed control of the Ennis Regional Learning Centre in a move that project administrator, Anne Griffin predicted would help to widen participation in higher education in Clare by providing flexible and local access to third-level programmes.
The MTU decision has been criticised by LIT public health geographer lecturer Dr Frank Houghton, who described it as “short-sighted” and said it would harm both the institute and the people of the Mid-West in the long-term.
Dr Houghton, who lives in Ballina, Killaloe, noted that people live in a highly unequal society, characterised by a two-tier education system at third level.
“We know that there is a real status difference between universities and the institutes of technology in Ireland. This decision reinforces that division and copper-fastens elitism in Irish education.”
Dr Houghton has expressed serious concerns over LIT’s expansion plans and its attempts to build links with foreign universities in an increasingly globalised education sector as a result of this decision.
“Sixty-five percent of Irish students who complete second-level education go on to third level. This is the highest proportion in the EU. The Government aims to increase this figure to a target of 72%.
“According to the latest figures from the Higher Education Authority (HEA), which oversees the third-level sector in Ireland, the institutes of technology in Ireland consistently provide education to a higher proportion of those from less privileged backgrounds in Irish society than the universities,” he explained.
LIT confirmed it reviewed its position following an address by Education Minister Ruairí Quinn to all higher education leaders recently.
It claimed this unanimous decision has met with broad support among external and internal stakeholders, who were informed immediately, and reflects the ambition of LIT to set the standard for a strong institute of technology sector as envisaged by Minister Quinn.
“LIT has an excellent track record in all of these areas and will continue to deliver on national and regional policy objectives as an autonomous institution, collaborating closely with partner institutions.
“The Shannon Consortium comprising LIT, UL, Mary Immaculate College and IT Tralee is a good example of what can be done by working together and this alliance will now be deepened. This decision is good news for the region and for future cohorts of students,” said a LIT spokesperson.