4233. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans for capital investment in further and higher education facilities in County Louth over the next number of years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59347/26]

My Department works in close collaboration with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Education and Training Boards (ETBs) on the planning and development of capital projects. These projects are aligned with the institutions established masterplans and strategic priorities.

Under the National Development Plan, capital investment is allocated to HEIs and ETBs through competitive, programmatic funding calls. These are managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and SOLAS respectively. Capital projects are considered where a clear and validated need has been identified. This assessment takes into account the existing infrastructure of the institution and demonstrable demand for expansion or enhancement. Institutions in both the Higher Education and Further Education and Training sectors are eligible to apply for funding when approved programmes are announced.

The Deputy may wish to know that seven projects are currently in progress or planned for Louth over the next number of years. Details of these projects are provided in the table at the following link. In addition to these projects, the table also includes allocations to Louth Meath ETB under the Devolved Grant and Green Devolved Grant funding, as well as confirmation that there are currently no projects progressing under the FET College of the Future Major Projects Fund for Louth.

Capital Investment in Louth