Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2022
707. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide an update on the proposal for the delivery of a new college in County Cavan; the timeline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37795/22]
View answerFollowing a call for proposals under the FET College of the Future Major Projects Fund, I understand that a Strategic Assessment Report in relation to the Cavan Institute proposal has now been submitted by Cavan Monaghan ETB to SOLAS. The Deputy will be aware that it was agreed that the Cavan Institute project, previously part of the Department of Education school building programme, would be advanced as part of the new FET capital funding programme.
As the Deputy is aware, I have already committed that funding will be made available to deliver this project, subject to compliance with Public Spending Code requirements. The Strategic Assessment Report is currently undergoing evaluation by the SOLAS-led assessment team, together with other proposals from the sector.
I have also granted approval for the purchase of a new modular unit for CMETB.
This is a strategic opportunity to address short and medium term accommodation needs for FET services in Cavan Town. The modular unit, c 1,700 sq.m., will be located at the FET campus at the former Dún Uí Neill Army barracks and will be operational by September. This modular accommodation is to address immediate accommodation needs. This development will enable the delivery of a range of PLC programmes, including but not limited to: music production, science, beauty, sports, animal care, sports therapy and general skills programmes. It will also provide canteen and sports facilities and office space. Works are well advanced on the delivery of this project for the new academic year.
