Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
240. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to provide an update on a new building for Dunboyne College of Further Education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67258/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for his question. Louth Meath ETB (LMETB) recently submitted their updated Preliminary Business Case (PBC) for the infrastructure they would like to deliver in Dunboyne to SOLAS for evaluation.
The evaluation panel convened by SOLAS met earlier this month to review this proposal and have submitted its recommendation to my department for consideration. This evaluation cannot be finalised until a site has been secured as the acquisition of a suitable site that can support the required infrastructure is a key determine when assessing a business case.
The proposal submitted by LMETB involves the construction of a new, fit-for-purpose facility on a greenfield site in Dunboyne. This new facility is intended to replace the current rented accommodation in Dunboyne and is one of twelve projects currently being advanced under my department's FET College Major Capital Programme.
LMETB are progressing work on a preferred site option for the location of this new FET College. A purchase price has been agreed with the site’s vendor, and LMETB is now at an advanced stage of completing the legal and site due diligence process.
SOLAS and officials from my department will continue to support LMETB through the next stage of the development of its proposal. 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 the Dunboyne area and broader region.
