New Munster Technological University (MTU) will secure the future of higher education in the South West – Burke

The new Munster Technological University will secure the future of higher education in the South West, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Colm Burke was speaking after the Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh and the Minister of State for Higher Education Mary Mitchell O’Connor confirmed today (Tuesday) the two applicant institutes have demonstrated compliance and met the conditions set down for a merger.

Deputy Burke said: “Both Cork IT and IT Tralee have provided specialist high quality education for the people of Cork and Kerry, serving those communities as well as the wider Munster region since their founding (CIT in 1973 & IT Tralee in 1977).

“The educational success of the two institutes has provided some of Ireland’s best and brightest students and has contributed significantly to Ireland’s standing as a centre for innovation and investment opportunities. As a result, both institutes have maintained valuable partnerships with industry and have been a bedrock of innovation and development contributing to the Munster region for over 40 years.

“Today’s announcement builds on that success to deliver unique higher education and opportunities to students, staff and wider business and community stakeholders in the South West region.

“Though considerable challenges remain the establishment of a technological university will do much to ensure the future success of higher education in the State.

“I would also like to pay tribute to the boards of management and staff, both academic and administrative, in both institutes for helping to bring about this amalgamation and who I’ve no doubt, will continue to engage with the Department to see his project through.”