John Connolly (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

598. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the development of the new Galway college of further education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67101/25]

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

Galway and Roscommon ETB's proposal for a new FET College in Galway city has been successful in moving forward to the next stage of development - the Pre-tender, Project Design, Planning and Procurement Strategy stage, following an evaluation process. At this next stage of project development, the proposal will be further developed, the design will be advanced, and a procurement strategy and project execution plan developed.

GRETB’s proposal involves providing a state of the art, purpose-built college building, which will increase GRETB’s capacity in the city and its environs and enable a wider integration of FET services. This college will become the beacon for FET programmes and services in Galway, providing high-quality facilities for learners and staff.

SOLAS continues to engage with Galway Roscommon ETB around further developing their project scope and associated schedules of accommodation. Work has also begun on the development of standardised tender documents to facilitate the appointment of design teams.

SOLAS and officials from my department will continue to support Galway Roscommon ETB through this next stage of proposal development.

Supporting FET learners and educators across all regions including those in Galway and Roscommon remains a top priority for my department and I remain committed to ensuring there is appropriate infrastructure in place to meet their needs.