Minister acknowledges University of Limerick's controversies have impacted students

Speaking to the graduates, the Limerick TD said: 'One thing that has never been in doubt is the academic reputation and the quality of the graduates produced from this university.'

Patrick O’Donovan said: 'We will emerge from this period stronger, united and more ambitious than ever to deliver not only for a city, or a county, or a region, but for the entire country.' File photo: Sasko Lazrov, Photocall Ireland

The controversies that have plagued the University of Limerick (UL) in recent times has undoubtedly impacted students, Patrick O'Donovan has said.

The Minister of Further and Higher Education was delivering the commencement speech at the university on Monday when he spoke of the "extremely difficult period in its history". However, Mr O'Donovan said that he believes UL will emerge from this chapter in a much stronger position.