Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
909. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the status of approval for the SETU Wexford Campus; when the preliminary business case was received; when a decision will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37180/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraA proposal by South East Technological University (SETU) to develop a Wexford Campus is currently being progressed under my department’s Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund.
Over the last number of years, SETU have been working closely with Wexford County Council to help identify an appropriate site for a permanent home for their Wexford Campus. As part of this engagement, a preferred site was identified. Following a lengthy negotiation process between Wexford County Council and the Vendor, agreement could not be reached on price.
Wexford County Council are now progressing the acquisition of this site by way of a compulsory purchase order (CPO). It is the intention that part of these lands would facilitate a new SETU Wexford Campus.
In parallel to work on the site, SETU have been working on developing a preliminary business case for the proposed infrastructure they would like to be delivered on the site. This preliminary business case has now been received and is currently being evaluated by the HEA. This evaluation cannot be finalised until the site has been secured following the CPO process. The acquisition of a suitable site that can support the required infrastructure is a key determinant when assessing a business case.
I am aware that it has been a long-term ambition of SETU to secure a suitable permanent campus site in Wexford and I am committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to advance this ambition of ensuring there is appropriate infrastructure in place for learners and staff in Wexford and surrounding regions
