Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister can understand my particular interest in this because this is a ground-breaking initiative for LIT and the campuses in Thurles and Clonmel. There is no doubt that it would have a transformative effect on the educational and enterprise landscape of the county. It has been proven in many other cases, such as Athlone and Limerick, that a local university producing highly qualified graduates will enhance the opportunities for inward investment and job creation, and that would obviously apply to Thurles and County Tipperary.

Our institute in Thurles has travelled a long way. It is because of the vision, creativity and dedication of staff that it has overcome much turbulence and adversity. I hope we are now on the brink of a new future as an integral part of a new identity and plan. I am grateful for the Minister's encouragement and support. I look forward to working with him and his officials to bring this initiative to a successful conclusion.

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