Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

348. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills for an update in relation to the proposed new veterinary college in Kildalton, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15875/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As was announced in 2024, a Veterinary Medicine degree in South East Technological University (SETU) has been recommended for progression under the HEA Expression of Interest process. It is anticipated that this programme will have its first intake in September 2026, with up to 40 students expected to enrol. Engagement with the Veterinary Council of Ireland is ongoing in relation to professional accreditation of these new programmes.

The introduction of a new veterinary programme is significant both for the South East region and nationally and I was delighted to visit SETU recently to meet with the University President Prof Veronica Campbell to discuss the roll out of this programme amongst other exciting developments.

I am aware of the demand for veterinary places from my own contacts and I am conscious of how many students are travelling abroad to study these courses. The programmes will help to meet the skills demands of the veterinary and agri-food sectors and contribute to the retention and development of the vibrant agricultural industry base in the region.

Delivery of the programme will be split between Kildalton College and SETU's Waterford campus. SETU's partnership with Kildalton College will ensure that students will have access to a wide range of animal handling and husbandry facilities. It is my understanding that Animal biology and anatomy classes will also take place in Kildalton.

As you can appreciate, delivery of these programmes is complex. Regulatory and curricular approval, staffing, equipment and laboratory facilities must be in place before they can be opened for application. Admissions criteria and entry routes will be determined by the Universities and will be published when the programmes open for application.

SETU has a strong track record of undergraduate education and research activity in disciplines such as Agricultural Science, Animal Health and Welfare, Food Science, Biosciences, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Science and Healthcare, and I am very pleased to see that they are building on this expertise as they provide opportunities for students in the region to train veterinarians.