Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 25: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide capital funding for the National College of Art and Design in order that it can upgrade its campus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19905/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that in November 2004 I announced funding for the National College of Art and Design (NCAD). The funding was targeted at the refurbishment of the fire station in Thomas Street. This funding was approved on foot of the work by the Kelly Review Group on the prioritisation of capital projects across the third level sector in general. To date, this project has not advanced to construction because the College authorities have been assessing existing provision within the College and exploring alternative options for the future development of the College.

At the same time my Department was aware that the College authorities were examining accommodation solutions in relation to the totality of the Thomas Street campus in line with the campus development plan that they had developed.

I understand that An Bord of NCAD recently decided that it wishes to remain at the Thomas Street campus. My Department in association with the Higher Education Authority (HEA) is of course willing to consider the implications of this decision in the context of the original campus development plan or any amendment of it that the college authorities decide to put forward.