Ruairí Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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3407. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for capital investment in further and higher education facilities in Louth over the next number of years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43464/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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My Department works in close collaboration with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Education and Training Boards (ETBs) on the planning and development of capital projects. These projects are aligned with the institutions established masterplans and strategic priorities.

Under the National Development Plan, capital investment is allocated to HEIs and ETBs through competitive, programmatic funding calls. These are managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and SOLAS respectively. Capital projects are considered where a clear and validated need has been identified. This assessment takes into account the existing infrastructure of the institution and demonstrable demand for expansion or enhancement. Institutions in both the Higher Education and Further Education and Training sectors are eligible to apply for funding when approved programmes are announced.

The Deputy may wish to know that four projects are currently in progress or planned for Louth over the next number of years. Details of these projects are provided in the following table.