The halted plans for Technological University for the South East have been thrown a lifeline.
An independent mediator has been given 10 weeks now to get the project back on track.
Michael Kelly who is a former Chairman of the Higher Education Authority has been tasked with getting IT Carlow and Waterford IT back around the talks table after the proposed merger hit a stumbling block in recent weeks.
Fianna Fail Deputy John McGuinness told Sue Nunn he has his doubts that this can be fixed.
Fine Gael TD John Paul Phelan is more positive but says that Mr Kelly faces a difficult task.
Deputy Phelan thinks he is the right person for the job though.