The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris has today launched a new implementation plan to address issues regarding sexual violence and harassment in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
The new Implementation Plan which covers the 2022 to 2024 period, builds upon and complements the wide range of initiatives currently in place to support a zero-tolerance approach to issues of sexual violence and harassment in Ireland’s HEIs.
In launching the new implementation plan, the Minister outlined details of an additional €1.5 million in support secured in Budget 2023.
The new funding will support the appointment of Sexual Violence and Harassment (SVH) Prevention and Response Managers in our HEIs.
These new posts will further enhance the implementation of measures aimed at eradicating issues of sexual violence and harassment in Ireland’s HEIs.
Speaking today, the minister said:
“I have been very clear that the tertiary education and training sector must lead the way in changing cultures, behaviours and practices across society to ensure that sexual violence and harassment are not tolerated. There is a particular responsibility on those charged with educating the next generation in ensuring that their students and learners are equipped to lead the change more widely across society.
“The additional funding is essential to ensuring we have the right people driving these changes. The €1.5 million will allow us to appoint Sexual Violence and Harassment (SVH) Prevention and Response Managers in our HEIs and lead on the important changes we are making.”
The implementation plan was developed in close consultation with the HEA Advisory Group on Ending Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment in HEIs.
It represents a comprehensive and ambitious response to the recommendations contained in the survey reports. The 19 actions in the implementation plan will be delivered between 2022 and 2024.
Among the recommendations are the potential to embed educational programmes in the curriculum and undertaking a study following the victim’s journey from disclosure to outcome.