REACTION: New Institute campus funding welcomed
Local politicians have welcomed the news that funding has been ring-fenced for a new campus for Cavan Institute.
Minister Simon Harris announced the news by letter to local deputies today. The funding will come from the government’s capital programme.
Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) now have to submit plans for the new campus. They own multiple sites around Cavan, including the former Dún Uí Neill army barracks on the Dublin Road and an extensive wasteground beside the existing campus on Cathedral Road.
Deputy Brendan Smith, who was the chairman of Cavan Institute's first board of management, has advocated for the expansion to remain at the Cathedral Road site, given its proximity to Cavan town centre.
"I have long highlighted the need for additional permanent accommodation at the Institute on the Cathedral Road, Cavan," said Deputy Smith, welcoming the news.
"I will be glad to continue to work with Cavan/Monaghan ETB in progressing the application and having the new accommodation put in place.
"Cavan Institute was the first dedicated Post-Leaving Certificate College established in the country. Its success since the College complex was provided at Cathedral Road, Cavan, in 2004 means that there is an urgent requirement for additional permanent accommodation at that site. I look forward to the expansion of the College’s facilities,” stated Brendan Smith TD
Exciting news
His Fianna Fáil colleague, Deputy Niamh Smyth said she was "delighted" with that Cavan Institute will receive the "much needed funding it requires".
"I have been advised that engineers are already on site to evaluate the plans. This is such exciting news for County Cavan.
"I would also like to congratulate both the Principal and Deputy Principal at Cavan Institute and all the staff who have been relentless in their efforts to get this project over the line and continue to attract students whilst providing a positive learning experience for all those who attend.
"Cavan Monaghan ETB will shortly be invited to submit a proposal and I will continue to liaise with Minister Harris to ensure this project is realised."
Read more on this story here:
https://www.anglocelt.ie/2022/02/23/funding-for-new-cavan-institute-campus-ring-fenced/