Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
918. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans for the now vacant site on Cathal Brugha Street; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47135/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe FET College Major Capital Programme is a key commitment of the Programme for Government which aims to address shortfalls in existing FET infrastructure and support projects that drive reform across the sector by consolidating provision and integrating further education and training. This programme will deliver the largest-ever capital investment in the further education and training sector.
There are 12 projects progressing under this programme including a project proposed by City of Dublin ETB at the Cathal Brugha site. City of Dublin ETBs proposal provides a unique opportunity for the redevelopment of the former TU Dublin properties at Cathal Brugha St. and Marlborough Street into a flagship FET campus, serving as the focal point for the reimagining of further education and training in Dublin city.
The refurbishment of this unique structure offers an exceptional opportunity to expand capacity, deepen employer partnerships, and strengthen learner progression pathways across the capital. This proposal is at the Pre-tender - Project Design, Planning, and Procurement Strategy Stage of the Infrastructure Guidelines.
In order to provide for consistency of approach and to ensure timely delivery of projects under this programme, an integrated design team framework was advertised to suppliers in April of this year. This framework will be in place for all ETBs who are ready to draw down services from it later this year. Therefore, with this framework in place, I expect to see a number of design team appointments under this programme before the end of the year.
Supporting learners and educators remains a top priority for my department, and I remain committed to ensuring there is appropriate infrastructure in place to meet their needs.
