Clarification re the proposed dissolution of the National University of Ireland

NUI Maynooth has been informed of the decision to dissolve the National University of Ireland (NUI). The NUI's four constituent universities, NUI Maynooth, University College Dublin, University College Cork, and NUI Galway, have the same statutory status as the State's three other universities but a small number of administrative and academic functions have been carried out on their behalf by the NUI.

The Universities Act of 1997 established NUI Maynooth as a University with the ability to award its own degrees, along with the other NUI universities. The announcement has no implications for prospective or current students, alumni, or for the top class international reputation of NUI Maynooth's degrees.

NUI degrees are recognised the world over for their excellence, and play a significant role in developing both Irish society and the Irish economy, as well as promoting Ireland as a destination for international students.

The name of the University will continue to be NUI Maynooth

Ends                                                                                     21st January 2009

Further information from:

NUI Maynooth

Deirdre Watters                               +353 1 708 3363