Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am absolutely determined to deliver a technological university for the south east. It is key from an access to education point of view for Waterford and the south-east region. It is also a key driver of regional development and balanced regional development. It will be a game changer for the south east. As the Deputy knows, I have made a number of appointments and decisions in regard to a project board for the technological university for the south east, TUSE. I have met the presidents of WIT and IT Carlow and I commend, on the record of the House, both institutions. I acknowledge and echo the Deputy's sentiments in regard to the excellent work being done in WIT and its excellent record of achievement.

On capital funding for Waterford IT, it was €1 million in 2018, €1.4 million in 2019 and €2.4 million this year. Operational funding was €37.96 million in 2018 and €40.91 million last year. We are continuing to increase investment in Waterford and the south east. Together, we will deliver the technological university and I hope to receive an application in that regard by April of next year.

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