Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
155. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to expedite work on a site (details supplied) in Killarney, County Kerry, by developing a state-of-the-art campus focusing on skills development in hospitality training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37610/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraSOLAS continue to support Kerry ETB (KETB) in the development of its Preliminary Business Case (PBC) proposal for Killarney under the FET College of the Future Major Projects fund. The proposal is one of twelve projects that are currently being progressed under this fund.
The proposal put forward by KETB under the FET College of the Future Major Projects fund aims to transform FET provision in Killarney in a state-of-the-art campus focusing on skills development in Hospitality Training, while supporting Renewable Energy and Sustainable Green Technologies.
I understand that KETB are at an advanced stage in terms of the development of their submission to support the purchase of a suitable site for this project. This submission is expected to be received by SOLAS shortly.
In parallel to the work on the site, SOLAS are also supporting KETB in developing their PBC for the proposed infrastructure they would like delivered on the site. Once KETB have completed this business case, it will be submitted to SOLAS for evaluation.
My department and I remain committed to ensuring there is appropriate infrastructure in place to meet the needs of FET learners and teaching staff in Kerry and the wider region.
