4235. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his plans for a Colleges of the Future in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59349/26]

The FET College of the Future Major Projects Fund was launched to address existing deficits in FET infrastructure, to support projects that drive reform of the FET sector and to facilitate consolidation and integration of further education and training. All ETBs were invited to submit proposals under this programme for consideration, twelve projects were successful at the first stage of the assessment process and are currently being progressed under this programme.

A proposal from Louth Meath ETB (LMETB) for its project in Dunboyne is currently being progressed under this programme call. The proposal involves the construction of a new, fit-for-purpose facility on a greenfield site in Dunboyne. This proposed new infrastructure will enhance and support the delivery of FET provision for learners and teaching staff across the wider Louth Meath region.

LMETB have submitted a preliminary business case to SOLAS for the infrastructure they wish to deliver in Dunboyne, this is currently under evaluation. The ETB is also at an advanced stage in the acquisition of a site for this project. The evaluation of their project will be completed until when a site has been secured as this is a key determine when assessing a business case. Business Cases that meet the evaluation criteria will advance to the next stage of development: Pre-Tender – Project Design, Planning, and Procurement Strategy.

SOLAS and my department officials will continue to work and support LMETB in progressing this key project for the Louth Meath region.