My Department and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) continue to work closely with Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) in relation to options for expanded campus provision and are dedicating significant investment towards technological university (TU) development and progression.
WIT has been undertaking an appraisal process, in accordance with the requirements of the Public Spending Code, to examine options for expanded provision. A Preliminary Business Case is scheduled to be received by the HEA from WIT this week. The level of capital costs of future campus development and timeline for delivery can only be determined following a detailed planning and design process; however, investment is likely to be on a phased basis and situated within the context of a wider investment programme for the TU sector.
My Department is also seeking to progress a sector-wide borrowing framework for TUs in line with the recommendations of the 2019 TURN report. Initial discussions stretching back to 2019 on the development of a TU borrowing framework took place with relevant actors including the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. It is now anticipated that any borrowing framework would in the first instance prioritise the provision of purpose built student accommodation in line with commitments in the Government's Housing for All plan.
While at a relatively preliminary stage, proposals are currently being developed with a view to further interactions being conducted with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, as appropriate.
