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Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris has today announced a major project in Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) that will progress to the next stage of development under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund (TSSPF).
The investment in Dundalk Institute of Technology will expand apprenticeship provision by refurbishing vacant space within the PJ Carroll Building.
The investment made available through the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund is significant, providing funding to the tune of €130 million for a number of projects that have been successful at this stage of the programme.
Speaking today, Minister Harris said:
“I am delighted to announce that DkIT’s proposal has been successful under the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund.
“This increase of apprenticeship training blocks announced today will support the expansion of registrations across numerous crafts including Electrical, Motor, Carpentry, Joinery, Plumbing and Welding and will respond to the growing demand for learning through apprenticeship.
“This investment reaffirms once again the government’s strong commitment to enhancing and expanding the apprenticeship system, putting apprenticeships at the centre of the education and training system by building on previous apprenticeship programme funding.
“It is through multi-million euro investments such as this that we will truly change the learners’ experience for the better by providing the highest quality of infrastructure.
“This capital investment I am announcing today once again shows the commitment and belief we have in our Technological Sector, supporting them to be drivers of regional and national development and supporting learners to achieve the skills level required to engage both nationally and in the global world.
“The HEA in advancing these capital proposals, is playing a crucial leading role in rolling out the Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund ensuring a pipeline of key strategic projects that delivers for our learners and our economic and societal needs."
Ciarán McCaffrey, Head of Capital Programmes in the HEA added:
“We welcome today’s announcement that DkIT will progress to the next stage of the HEA’s Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund (TSSPF).
“The investment is key to facilitating a strong pipeline in crucial skills areas through the provision of apprenticeships in areas such as carpentry, joinery, electrical and plumbing. This investment builds on existing collaboration with the Further Education sector while also contributing to climate targets through the refurbishment of higher education space.
“The HEA looks forward to continuing to work closely with DkIT as they progress towards the implementation phase of this project.”
President of DkIT Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan welcomed the announcement:
“The announcement of funding for the refurbishment of the PJ Carroll building at DkIT solidifies our committed in providing and responding to both national and regional needs in relation to the training of in-demand crafts people.
“This funding will allow us to do a number of things, firstly increase the provision in existing craft areas, secondly increase the range of crafts apprenticeships on offer, and finally will allow us to offer additional opportunities on higher level apprenticeships.
“The School of Engineering which is the provider of the apprenticeship delivery within the Institute, was a recent recipient of the prestigious Athena Swan Bronze award. This accreditation confirms their conviction to support the increase of females entering into the apprenticeship training journey.”