Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I referred to the fact that it is referenced on ten specific occasions in the strategic plan. Strategic objective 3.1 is to "Establish the new and dynamic University-Enterprise Quarter on the Waterford Crystal site as a focal point for the SE Innovation Region." It is of critical importance. I will cast the net a little wider, since I have the opportunity. Enabler A in the strategic plan is to complete a "masterplan for SETU for the coming two decades and deliver new physical infrastructure to sustain and increase our growth in student numbers and research activity".

It mentions the Waterford Crystal site and the acquisition and proceeding to design and delivery of a 10,000 sq. m academic building. It also references something we have been waiting on for a long time, namely, the engineering building, which will be an ICT general teaching building on the Waterford campus. Section 13.1.7 of the plan refers to an additional 10,000 sq. m to support expansion associated with additional research activity and, critically, section 13.1.8 references the refurbishment of 20,000 sq. m of current infrastructure. That ongoing investment to keep the infrastructure we have fit for purpose is a critical piece of the jigsaw.

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