I wish to advise the Deputy that we have not received a proposal to locate an apprenticeship centre of excellence in Drogheda, County Louth. However, it is my view that students in Drogheda should be able to access all necessary and appropriate third level education facilities within the wider area.
I am pleased to confirm Louth Meath ETB have put forward a proposal under the Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Fund (SIUF), which I announced in February 2022, for multi-purpose tertiary facilities for Drogheda Further Education Institute. The first projects approved to proceed to appointment of a design team under the SIUF are expected to be communicated from mid-June onwards to the ETBs. I will keep the Deputy appraised of any updates.