Brendan Smith TD spoke in the Dáil: Further and Higher Education

Brendan Smith TD of Fianna Fáil, representing Cavan‑Monaghan, spoke in the Dáil on 2 July 2026 about further and higher education. He raised the need for a major extension to the Cavan Institute campus on Cathedral Road, located in the centre of Cavan town. The TD said he was anxious to see the college expanded to meet growing demand for post‑secondary training in the county. He also called on Minister James Lawless to support this development and urged greater collaboration between further education institutions across the border. Smith highlighted a potential partnership between Dublin City University’s Institute of Technology (DKIT) and Queen’s University Belfast, arguing that such cooperation would benefit students in the border region by broadening access to courses and resources.

The question on further and higher education was part of a wider debate on how Ireland can strengthen its post‑secondary sector. Smith used the opportunity to remind colleagues that Cavan has long been home to a vibrant community of learners, yet the current facilities are stretched. He urged the government to consider the long‑term benefits of investing in local infrastructure and cross‑border links.

The TD’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about expanding educational opportunities for residents of County Cavan. While no specific funding figures were announced, Smith said that a major extension would be a priority for the next budget cycle.

For full details of the debate, see the Oireachtas record from 2 July 2026.

Summary written by localnews.ie from the original source coverage. Click through for the full report.