Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway have been awarded more than €6 million for improvements to their campuses.
The funding announced by Minister or Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris comes under the Devolved Grant system for campuses improvements.
The grant can cover measures to make the college campuses more energy efficient, to undergo health and safety works, or minor upgrade and refurbishment works.
Atlantic Technological University has been allocated €4,130,600 under the scheme, while the University of Galway will receive €2,554,458.
In total, €40 million is being allocated to seven universities, five Technological Universities, two Institutes of Technology and five other colleges.
“I am really pleased to allocate a further €40 million to our college campuses across the country,” Minister Harris said.
“This will allow universities invest to ensure their capital stock is fit-for-purpose and to operate sustainably.”
“Adequate levels of maintenance are required across the third level sector to prevent deterioration of capital infrastructure and ensure that facilities remain up-to-date, fit for purpose and respond to climate objectives. This funding will allow third level institutes to do that.”
“This Department continues to provide the resources needed to ensure our third level sector can offer the best facilities to its students and its staff. Today is another example of that.”
Ciarán McCaffrey, Head of Capital Programmes in the HEA added, “Today’s announcement of a Devolved Capital Grant of €40 million is very much welcomed for the higher education sector.”
“This grant, which is provided through the HEA, is intended to support Higher Education Institutions in addressing necessary infrastructural improvements while also allowing for energy efficiency and universal access upgrades as well as investments in ICT.”
“This grant supports a range of capital priorities across the sector while at the same time improving the campus experience for students and staff”.
