Minister's message for CAO hopefuls

Minister Harris was visiting Cavan and Monaghan Institutes, as well as Youthreach in Kingscourt

Ahead of CAO offers being dispatched to tens of thousands of third-level hopefuls tomorrow morning, Minister for Further Education Simon Harris has sounded a message of hope to those who otherwise may not get the college offer they initially hoped for.

Having spoke with tutors, as well as learners at Cavan Institute, some of whom “perhaps missed out by a few points” and took the further education route instead, Minister Harris said: “There are so many pathways for students to get to where they want to. Tomorrow I know will be a day of mixed emotion. A day of great delight for many, and disappointment for some. But please know, no matter what happens for you tomorrow, there are so many opportunities, options and pathways. Really, what goes on here at Cavan Institute is proof of that.”

Minister Harris was visiting Cavan and Monaghan Institutes, as well as Youthreach in Kingscourt, having given the green-light for a new state-of-the-art modular education facility at the former army barracks in Cavan Town.

The new accommodation will be based at the former army barracks on the Dublin Road and comprise of classrooms and practical rooms for students, as well as canteen, sport facilities and office space.

The new facilities will be used to deliver of a range of programmes such as music production, science, beauty, sports, animal care, sports therapy, and general skills.

Welcoming the development, Minister Heather Humphreys, said the announcement will see the CMETB take “another important step forward”.

As Cathaoirleach of the first Board of Management of Cavan Institute, Brendan Smith TD, said he was glad to support the work of the then County Cavan VEC in growing the further education sector locally.

“In 2005 Cavan Institute became the first dedicated Post-Leaving Certificate College in the country and the major building complex was provided at Cathedral Road,” said the local Fianna Fail elected representative. “This sector has grown in numbers and in importance in ensuring that students can access suitable courses of learning and also enables progression to higher education for many students.”

Also welcoming the move, Senator Joe ‘Reilly regarded that the new modular unit would allow FET facilities currently being provided in rented premises, considered no longer suitable accommodation, to move to the FET Campus.

“This is a major investment in Cavan and a very big vote of confidence in our excellent Institute of Further Education,” stated Senator O’Reilly.

“It is another major boost to the local economy and will create a multiplier,” he continued.

In conclusion, Senator O’Reilly stated: “I am delighted with the very real commitment from Minister Harris to the Post Leaving Cert. sector and the apprenticeship sector creating a whole new dynamic in education.”