John Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive response. I would expect nothing less. He has been across this issue since his appointment.

On borrowing, significant work has been done to enable technological universities to borrow to fund purpose-built student accommodation, of which there is a shortage in Waterford, as there is elsewhere.However, beyond that we need to get to the point where we have the likes of incubation spaces and research and development centres which can be revenue generators. These will prove the ability of the new technological universities to be able to repay the investment. In the same context, that should be expedited with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I would appreciate the Minister's comments on that.

I welcome also his comments on the headquarters of the new TU. It is essential it is located in Waterford, notwithstanding the fact the president will obviously have a presence on both campuses. That is a natural progression here but there has to be a designated HQ and I welcome the Minister's comments in that regard.