Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 May 2022
101. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide an update on the University of Limerick’s development plans for the portion of its campus which is located in County Clare. [25017/22]
View answerUL has indicated that, as part of its future campus planning, it is advancing an application for the designation of lands on the County Clare side of its campus as an Economic Strategic Development Zone or SDZ.
UL has indicated to my Department that it sees potential for new and innovative models of teaching and learning through designation of an SDZ alongside its current campus, and in particular a further deepening of engagement with industry. This close partnering between the university and industry in the delivery of higher education could offer opportunities for students to be immersed in industry practice from the beginning of their studies. It could also present opportunities for new collaborations in research and innovation.
My Department does not have any direct involvement in the plans, which are currently being progressed by UL, as an autonomous institution, in conjunction with Clare County Council.
However, I understand that the request for designation of lands as an SDZ was received from UL and Clare County Council by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on 24 January 2022.
I have also been advised that a meeting took place between officials of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and representatives of UL and Clare County Council on 26 April. At that meeting, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage undertook to issue follow-up correspondence seeking further details, including with regard to land use planning aspects of the proposal.
I intend to visit UL next week and look forward to hearing more about plans for the strategic development of the university.
Question No. 102 answered orally.
