The president of WIT says he understands the concerns of staff ahead of next week's industrial action.
Industrial action by members of the TUI will take place from April 4th at institute of technologies around the country in protest at what they say is a lack of investment in the 3rd level sector.
Staff at WIT and IT Carlow are also protesting against the proposed merger to create a South East Technological University.
WIT President Willie Donnelly told Beat News the staff have valid concerns.
"I think that what's important is that the industrial action doesn't impact on the student. This is a very important time for students - they are preparing for exams and for some students they are preparing for final year exams. I think it's important to also recognise the concerns that the unions do have for the lack of investment".
Regarding a potential merger, Professor Donnelly said WIT will not agree to a forced merger with IT Carlow unless it's in the benefit of the college and for the South East.
Negotations between the two ITs and the Department of Education for a Technological University for the South East have been the source of controversy for a number of years.
When asked about the subject, Professor Donnelly had this message for his staff at the college.
"They can rest assure that the University will only happen because of the commitment of staff, the University will not happen through a merger. So in terms of any concerns or industrial action, they can rest assure that as President there will never be a situation where we will be forced into a merger.
