Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
1080. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans for capital investment in further education facilities in Kildare in each of the years 2026 and 2027, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3844/26]
View answerMy Department works collaboratively with all Higher Education Institutions and Education and Training Boards on the development of capital projects in line with their established masterplans.
My Department provides devolved funding to the ETB sector with full autonomy on decisions relating to the deployment of the grant resting with the individual ETBs. Devolved funding is provided in 2026 under the Devolved Capital Grant for small-scale capital projects, such as ongoing maintenance, planned preventative maintenance works and health and safety needs across the FET estate, and under the Green Devolved Grant, to support ETBs in enhancing the operational sustainability of ETB-owned buildings within the FET estate, focusing on low energy consumption, high energy efficiency, and reduced carbon impact.
Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB) received the following devolved funding allocations for 2026:
• Devolved Capital Grant €761,250
• Green Devolved Capital Grant €761,250
Devolved grant allocations for 2027 will be considered in the context of available funding in 2027.
Furthermore, KWETB has applied under the Minor Capital Works expression of interest for refurbishment of the Athy FET Centre. Capital funding has been allocated for associated investigative works, and these are scheduled to commence shortly.
