Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2025
70. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the timeline for the single phase delivery of Dunboyne College of Further Education and Training, County Meath, serving six counties, based on the February 2022 commitment of the then-Minister. [14512/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can advise the Deputy that Louth Meath ETB (LMETB) have been supported by SOLAS in developing their Preliminary Business Case (PBC) proposal for Dunboyne under the FET College of the Future Major Projects fund. The development of a robust PBC is fundamental to the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines.
The proposal put forward by LMETB relates to the development of a new fit for purpose facility on a green field site in Dunboyne, to replace the existing rented accommodation. It is one of twelve projects that are currently being progressed under this fund.
I understand that LMETB have now submitted their PBC proposal to SOLAS for evaluation, which is targeted to take place in early April. Following evaluation, PBCs which meet the relevant criteria will progress to the next stage of development as part of the Pre-tender – Project Design, Planning and Procurement Strategy Stage in line with the Infrastructure Guidelines.
My department and I remain committed to delivering these key projects for the sector which will deliver state of the art facilities to meet the needs of our learners and teaching staff in Meath and across the region.
