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

The autonomy of the universities is one thing but this gateway around designation as a centre of excellence has effectively locked the likes of SETU out of this sector.

Another aspect I draw the Minister's attention to is SETU's capacity to be a Gaeltacht university. We have a Gaeltacht in Waterford and an area where there is a real need is teachers teaching subjects through the medium of Irish. Our Gaelcholáistí are struggling to get their hands on suitably qualified teachers. There is an opportunity for SETU to step into this space. For many mothers and fathers living in the south east whose children want to study to become primary or secondary teachers, that involves sending the child away, with all the cost that involves. Within the south east are 600,000 people who look to Waterford for their core services. SETU, given the appropriate designation, can provide the service. It should be given the opportunity to do so.

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