Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 July 2023
236. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will report on the Shared Island cross-border funding to expand Ulster University’s Derry campus announced on 20 June 2023. [32835/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s Shared Island initiative aims to harness the full potential of the Good Friday Agreement to enhance cooperation, connection and mutual understanding, as well as engagement with all communities and traditions to build consensus around a shared future on the island.
On the 20th of June, the Government awarded €56 million from the Shared Island Fund for significant cross-border investments including a major investment at Ulster University’s campus in Derry to expand higher education on both sides of the border. €44.5 million will be provided to implement the Government’s commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement to capital investment at Ulster University campus in Derry for construction of a new Teaching and Student Services building to expand provision in the North West. This project is part of Ulster University’s development plan to provide a campus that can increase student numbers in Derry to 6,500 and beyond. Subject to appropriate due diligence, the Government will provide 85% of the estimated cost of construction, with Ulster University commitment to cover the balance and any additional costs. Capital investment at Ulster University’s campus in Derry is also supported by the NI Executive and UK Government, including through the Derry City Deal.
The project has a strong cross-border dimension, directly supporting the significant and expanding joint undergraduate and postgraduate course provision and research collaboration by Atlantic Technological University (Donegal) and Ulster University. This investment has been welcomed by all stakeholders in the region, and will help to transform the delivery of education in the North-West.
