Redesignation and Higher Education Policy in Ireland

Abstract

This paper follows the approach of (Acsente, 2010) and shares findings from documentary analysis conducted during on-going research on the study of the evolution of higher education in Ireland (Stephens 2009; Stephens 2012). As with many public policies debates the different views are available in: government strategy and policy documents; public statements, press releases and media interviews; consultant and expert input; and opinion pieces. Politicians, experts and management from both the universities and the IoTs have had their say. Some see opportunity for expansion while others talk of mission drift and a weakened sector. Of course Ireland is not the first country to try and restructure higher education provision. However, there is little evidence that politicians and stakeholders have reviewed the experience of the UK or Australia which have implemented a redesignation programme. Nor is there evidence that other unitary and binary systems across Europe have been studied. Therefore, there is a fear that any redesignation will become a political exercise with minimal positive impact for stakeholders.