Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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In February 2022, my Department launched the Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Fund (SIUF), to support smaller-scale investments in existing FET infrastructure, ensuring that works are progressed within the context of an overall strategic plan for the building and aligned with FET College of the Future principles. ETBs were invited to submit up to two priority proposals under the scheme. Cork ETB submitted an application under the SIUF programme call relating to the purchase of a new site for a bespoke purpose-built Youthreach facility in Macroom. The SIUF Evaluation Panel agreed that the proposal fell outside the remit of the SIUF programme call and therefore it could not be progressed under this process. The ETB is working with Macroom on a solution but these discussions are ongoing. CETB's other SIUF proposal is proceeding to planning and design at present. This concerned a proposal for the development of a new facility on the existing Mallow College of Further Education.