The commitment of IT Carlow to a technological university for the south east has been called into question after TUI members at the institute rejected a deal which would have brought it a step closer.

The WIT branch endorsed the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with management by 92.7% but the IT Carlow Branch rejected it by 60%.

The Memorandum was agreed last week between both ITs and the Union following six months of negotiations.

Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh, Branch Secretary of the WIT Branch of the TUI said it was unusual for Branch members to reject a proposal signed by their representatives:

“The endorsement of the MOU by WIT Branch members of the TUI reflects the long held desire, work and commitment of our members for a university for the South East as well as an endorsement of the terms we secured in the MOU for our members.

The WIT Branch members of the TUI have indicated that they are willing, ready and able to deliver a university for the South East, but under the relevant legislation we need a willing partner Institute.”

A spokesperson for Institute of Technology Carlow said it was disappointed by the rejection:

“It is not unusual for projects like this to face industrial relations challenges. These arise from differing work practices, operating models and expectations across merging institutes that have evolved as independent entities over many decades. Many of the issues identified for harmonisation in the new TUSEI are complex and multi-faceted, impacting not only on members of the TUI, but also on learners, all staff and external stakeholders.

“The TUSEI project has provided for this by putting in place a change programme, designed in conjunction with independent consultants PWC, to address harmonisation matters in a consultative, planned, deliberate and phased manner, both pre and post- merger and designation.”

The issue will be considered at IT Carlow’s governing body meeting next week.

Waterford Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane also expressed regret but said the concerns of the TUI members at IT Carlow must be listened to:

“Building a new Regional University is an exciting challenge. However it is a challenge. It is about leadership. And it is about delivering change and give and take. Change is never easy. To this end WIT has stepped up to the plate.

“However I am deeply disappointed that staff at IT Carlow have rejected the ballot. I respect their right to do so. It is important that politicians and stakeholders in Waterford do not knee jerk in our response. We must listen to their concerns and move forward together.

“However no one institute can block progress in the same way no one institute can deliver in splendid isolation. I am encouraged by the result of the Waterford ballot and I see the glass as half full. Delivery of a first class, Technological University for the region and one of International standing must remain our goal and must be delivered.”