Technological University status progress for LIT- Thurles and Clonmel campuses

Deputy Michael Lowry has confirmed that progress on the new Technological University between Limerick Institute of Technology and Athlone Institute of Technology is on track and agreement has been reached on all key elements.  

Extensive consultation and comprehensive interaction between all the parties including trade unions has ensured a smooth passage of the process. A formal application will be submitted to the Higher Education Authority in the coming weeks.  

 

Minister Simon Harris has informed me that this initiative is in line with Government Third Level Educational Policy. The minister expects that analysis by his Department and external independent evaluation should be completed over the coming months.  

It is anticipated that the necessary approvals for the proposal would be granted by March next year.  Implementation of the merger with technological status will become effective in September 2021."

 

Deputy Lowry stated that a huge body of work has been completed by the Umbrella Group representing all the stake holders under the chairmanship of Professor Tom Collins. This detailed process involved scoping out Structures/ governance/programmes/staffing.

He said: "The total funding required for enhancing the Educational Offering for the new entity is €23.8 million. This is to be shared between LIT and AIT. I have been promoting this project and kept informed of progress. I will obviously continue my involvement with a view to ensuring that Tipperary receives the desired proportion of this fund. The funding will be earmarked to increase the number with Doctoral qualifications, grow Master numbers and develop and expand research. This will have the consequence of substantially increasing student numbers at both Thurles and Clonmel.

 

"Separately the Capital Budget required over the next five years to build new infrastructure and additional facilities for the new entity is estimated at €48 million. This physical development of all the current satellite campuses will enable them to respond to the specific regional needs. This will include reflecting the business, enterprise and community needs of the region as well as ensuring that the campuses contributes to the entire organisation.

 

"This is a ground-breaking initiative for LIT and the campus at both Thurles and Clonmel. It will have a transformative effect on the educational and enterprise landscape of the county."

 

Deputy Lowry stated that this is fantastic news for Thurles and the development of the LIT Campus in the town. The Tipperary TD was a key figure in the establishment of the Institute (known as TRBDI) in 1999 and was instrumental in saving the institute from closure through the amalgamation with LIT in 2011.

 

Deputy Lowry concluded: The Tipperary Institute has travelled a long way. With the vision, creativity and dedication of staff,  it has overcome turbulence and diversity.  It is now on the brink of a bright new future as an integral part of a new identity and plan."