§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the functions of the academic board of the Ulster polytechnic; and when any of these functions were last carried out.
§ Mr. GoodhartThe functions of the academic board of the Ulster polytechnic as specified in regulation 19(3) of the Ulster Polytechnic Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1978 are are follows:
- (a) the regulation of the teaching work of the polytechnic;
- (b) advising the governors on future development and requirements for staff, accommodation and equipment;
- (c) the admission of students to the various courses;
- (d) the regulation of examinations;
- (e) the promotion and regulation of research within the finances provided;
- (f) the making of recommendations for the award of fellowships, research assistantships, scholarships, bursaries, prizes and other awards;
- (g) the nomination of academic representatives to external bodies;
- (h) such other functions as may from time to time be delegated to the board of governors.
The academic board meets only once each term, but its sub-committees meet more frequently. The most recent meeting of the full board was on 30 June.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether, in view of recent industrial disputes at the Ulster Polytechnic, involving the dismissal of two directors of studies and allegations of unfair dismissal, he will cause an investigation to be undertaken into the administration of the college.
§ Mr. GoodhartI am not aware of any circumstances which would call for any such investigation. Under regulations 14(1) and 17(2) of the Ulster Polytechnic Regulations (NI) 1978 the appointment and dismissal of staff are matters which come within the responsibility of the governors of the Ulster polytechnic.