Dáil debates

Thursday, 24 June 2021

Saincheisteanna Tráthúla - Topical Issue Debate

Further and Higher Education

6:40 pm

Photo of Niall CollinsNiall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am very happy to take up Deputy Smyth's invitation to visit Cavan and the barracks site and, indeed, any other sites which she deems appropriate, in order to press the case and help assist in the delivery of what is required. The development of the barracks site for Cavan Institute will enable delivery of a range of post-leaving certificate, PLC, programmes, including, but not limited to, music production, science, beauty, sports, animal care, sports therapy and general skills programmes. The new further education and training centre of excellence in supply chain logistics and procurement will focus on areas such as robotics, 3-D printing, the Internet of things, blockchain technology, big data analytics and drone technology. A canteen, sports facilities and open office space will also be available on campus to all learners and staff, all of which are required in modern society to enable modern industry.

SOLAS had originally approved the modular units, which the Deputy mentioned, in 2019. The Cavan and Monaghan ETB has been working towards its development since then. Unfortunately, Covid-19 and the associated construction restrictions, coupled with the global steel shortage, has significantly impacted the delivery of this project. The current target date for completion is the end of this year, 2021. I hope that information will be of assistance to the Deputy. I would be glad to accompany her on a visit to Cavan.

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