Institutes of Technology

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2021

Wednesday, 13 October 2021

Ceisteanna (62)

Matt Shanahan

Ceist:

62. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the threshold of repair funding he is proposing to sanction for repair works at WIT given that previous repair applications of up to a total €20 million were requested to deal with building refurbishment on teaching and laboratory buildings some of which are close to 40 years old (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49591/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

My Department is aware of the need for investment in campus upgrade works on the WIT main campus. In 2019 emergency funding of €291,000 was allocated to address immediate issues.

WIT was also allocated €3.7 million in Devolved Capital Grant funding over the last two years. This grant allows WIT the flexibility to prioritise funding to support minor capital works, including addressing health and safety requirements if required.

I am informed that the HEA has received an application from WIT in relation to the refurbishment and upgrade of part of its campus facilities. The HEA will engage with WIT on its upgrade and refurbishment priorities in the context of programmes to be rolled out under the new National Development Plan, which was published last week.

As the Deputy is aware, the HEA also continues to have significant engagement with WIT in relation to capacity expansion proposals.