UCD issues Formal Apology to Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin over Harassment Ordeal

Dr. Ní Shúilleabháin received a formal apology from the current Acting President of UCD, Professor Mark Rogers.

The following article features a discussion of sexual harassment, which some readers may find distressing. If you have been affected by any of these issues, please consult with the list of helpful contact numbers included at the foot of the text.

Dr. Ní Shúilleabháin received a formal apology from the current Acting President of UCD, Professor Mark Rogers. In the letter, Prof. Rogers acknowledged that “University policies at the time were inadequate to address the situation”, and that she was “not supported appropriately by other members of the university community.” Prof. Rogers also acknowledged the role that Dr. Ní Shúilleabháin had played in highlighting the need for substantial changes to policies and procedures regarding harassment cases, and noted that “transformative change” had now occurred in this area.

Responding on Twitter, Dr. Ní Shúilleabháin thanked Prof. Rogers for “showing leadership on this, where it wasn’t apparent before.” She thanked the people who had supported her throughout the ordeal, stating: “I hope my kids will grow up & study or work in environments that don’t accept bullying, harassment or violence in any form.” She concluded by stating: “One big lesson I’ve learned is to #JoinAUnion. Thank you again to @ifut [Irish Federation of University Teachers] for their amazing support. I wish I had joined sooner (I only joined last year).”

Dr. Ní Shúilleabháin is a highly successful and accomplished academic, and serves as the Chair of the Citizens’ Assembly on Biodiversity, which is currently preparing to report to the Government. Her harassment case sparked calls for improvements to harassment policies. The UCD Dignity and Respect Website states: “All members of the University Community have the right to study or work in an environment free from bullying, harassment and sexual harassment. Students, staff and visitors to UCD can report anonymously through the UCD Report and Support tool.”

Contact Numbers for Survivors of Sexual Violence: