Multi-million investment in CIT – Lombard

An €18.75m investment in Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) will prove to be an immense benefit to current and future students, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Tim Lombard, who is the Fine Gael candidate for the Cork South West constituency at the next General Election, said the multi-million euro funding is coming from the Government’s Project Ireland 2040.

The Department’s approval in principle for the €18.75 capital allocation will go towards significant building upgrades and refurbishment for Cork IT’s Bishopstown campus.

Senator Lombard said: “This announcement proves that Project Ireland 2040 is delivering for Cork. The funding represents a key investment for Cork City and will further boost the role played by CIT, part of the Munster Technological University (MTU) consortium along with IT Tralee, as a driver of economic development in the southern region.

“CIT is 45 years old and this is a particularly welcome investment for all who work and study there. I understand the refurbishment project will be phased in over five years to minimise disruption to students and staff. This will include various works and improvements including the upgrading of the mechanical and electrical services.

“It will also allow for a number of sustainable technologies including a combined heat and power plant, solar photovoltaic system, LED Lighting and upgraded building management system,” Senator Lombard said.

“Whether it comes to academic or sporting achievements, CIT and their students have always excelled and led the way. I have no doubt this will continue in the coming years,” the Senator added.

Education Minister Joe McHugh said: “This funding under Project Ireland 2040 recognises the role of higher education institutions in driving regional growth. CIT plays a hugely important role in providing talented graduates to industry in the southern region. The investment will further strengthen its capacity to meet industry needs and will directly support its ambitions to develop a new Munster Technological University, together with IT Tralee.”

Minister Mitchell O’Connor said: “The capital investment announced today will provide upgraded facilities that improve the overall student experience, significantly improve the building’s energy performance, and allow CIT to continue to expand its student numbers.

“As part of Budget 2020, we have also announced that we are dedicating €90 million over the next three years to support our higher education institutions to achieve TU designation and to support the further advancement of established technological universities.”

“The establishment of the MTU is a key Government priority to deliver on regional development objectives for the southern region under Project Ireland 2040,” Minister Mitchell O’Connor said.