Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2021
82. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the site location and timeline for a new capital build for Cavan Institute; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58623/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra88. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the status of the advancement of a new campus for Cavan Institute at Cathedral Road, Drumalee, County Cavan; if a report has been submitted to his Department regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58624/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 88 together.
Cavan ETB has identified the development of the site of the former Army Barracks in Cavan as an opportunity to centralise further education and training provision and eliminate the need for various rented accommodation arrangements around Cavan town.
To address immediate needs, plans were advanced by the ETB for interim temporary accommodation for Cavan Institute on the Barracks site. My Department approved funding in late summer for works associated with the delivery of an interim accommodation solution, which is currently with the ETB to progress.
As the Deputy is aware, the new National Development Plan (NDP) provides for a step up in capital funding for the further education and training (FET) sector. Significant planning work required to underpin this major programme of FET investment is being advanced by my Department, in conjunction with SOLAS.
A framework for applications for major FET capital projects, in line with the provisions of the Public Spending Code and the Future FET Strategy, will be confirmed shortly. Once that framework is in place, SOLAS will engage with CMETB on the information required to bring this project to the next stage. The formal process required under the Public Spending Code will allow options to be considered in relation to the potential campus location and other relevant project parameters.
