Vol. 492 No. 3
75 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give details of the development of the Institute of Technology in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, and, in particular, the plans to commence recruitment and the phasing of the project. [13894/98]
An establishment board has been appointed to complete strategic planning for a new institute of technology in Blanchardstown and to make arrangements for the commencement of courses. The board has met on two occasions. Course development is under way and the board is continuing its strategic planning. A further announcement will be made when final decisions have been taken on completion of the planning process.
The plans being developed by the board are consistent with commencement of full-time third level courses in the institute in September 1999.
A site for a permanent campus has been identified. This is part of a parcel of land to be developed as a business and technology park by the IDA and Fingal County Council. Proposals for the infrastructural development and landscaping of the site are at advanced stage. The first phase of the capital development of the institute will have a capacity of the order of 900 full time third level students.
