142. (1) An tÚdarás may provide assistance in accordance with this section to a designated institution of higher education following a request in writing for such assistance from the institution.

(2) The assistance that may be provided by An tÚdarás to a designated institution of higher education under this section may comprise either of the following for such period as is agreed by the Chief Executive Officer with the institution:

(a) the appointment by the Chief Executive Officer of a person or persons, or of a body, to provide advice or assistance of a specialist nature to the institution;

(b) the issuing of guidance to the institution regarding a particular matter or matters.

(3) A person or persons, or a body, appointed under subsection (2)(a) by the Chief Executive Officer may—

(a) provide advice or assistance or make recommendations to the designated institution of higher education concerned regarding any matter relating to its functions or its viability,

(b) carry out an assessment of particular reports, financial plans, governance practices or the undertaking of particular functions and may, following such an assessment, make recommendations to the designated institution of higher education concerned with regard to the changes or improvements required to be made by it,

(c) agree with the designated institution of higher education concerned a plan of action to be implemented regarding any matter related to the performance of its functions or its viability,

(d) assess and monitor the implementation by the institution of higher education concerned of any recommendations made or plans agreed, or both, and

(e) prepare a report and submit it to the Chief Executive Officer regarding the assistance provided to, and the action taken by, the designated institution of higher education concerned.