Madam, - Is it not time that a Board for Academic Freedom was established in Ireland? Such an independent body could have the power to monitor academic complaint procedures and act as a mediator when controversial issues arise. All too often, the provisions made by the 1977 Universities Act would not seem to go far enough to protect what it recognises as the right of individuals to "question and test received wisdom, to put forward new ideas and to state controversial or unpopular opinions [without being] disadvantaged, or subject to less favourable treatment by the university, for the exercise of that freedom" (Chapter 1, par. 14.2).
It is surely debatable whether an academic institution is always capable of dealing objectively with those of its employees who raise controversial issues, particularly issues concerning the institution itself. In a number of cases, those who follow the strength of their convictions to question and disagree with the status quo come up against a wall of silence, a carefully orchestrated campaign of bullying or, worse, find themselves the subject of a disciplinary hearing, for example, on the charge of making "false and malicious allegations". In such instances, the original academic issue can often be eclipsed.
In many institutions it is only when the internal inquiry finds against the individual and an appeal is then made to the Visitor that there is an external independent assessment of the case. Significantly, such assessments can lead to diametric divergence from the institution's judgment.
It is clear that there is some divergence as to what constitutes acceptable academic freedom and expression. However, an independent Board for Academic Freedom could investigate, advise and mediate at an early stage, ensure fair play and thereby undoubtedly prevent academic disagreements from becoming unnecessarily conflictual and protracted.
If academics are to pursue and seek out the truth (surely their vocation), their challenging of any aspect of academic life must not merely be seen as a right, but more importantly as an example of invaluable intellectual autonomy, undoubtedly one of the keys to a civilised society. Whilst they should not claim infallibility, in the expression of their views they should be able to claim greater immunity from (often draconian) censure than is currently the case. - Yours, etc.,
Dr SARAH ALYN STACEY,
French Department,
Trinity College,
Dublin.