Minister says he is committed to Wexford SETU campus as he confirms support will come from department’s strategic projects fund

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD has confirmed that the SETU campus will be progressed under his department’s Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund. The minister visited the site at Ballynagee, Wexford town, which will provide the location for a joint campus between the South East Technological University (SETU) and Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB).

The campus is just one component of an overall masterplan for this site which will also include a range of different uses including sports facilities and an inner relief road. Wexford County Council is leading the development plans for the site.

Speaking on Friday, Minister Lawless said: "I wish to acknowledge the sustained efforts of Wexford County Council (WCC) to secure a site over the past several years and I extend my gratitude to all those who have worked tirelessly to advance the vision of establishing a new educational campus in Wexford. I view this development in Wexford as a valuable opportunity to showcase how our higher and further education and training sectors can work in partnership to create a collaborative learning environment.

“It will give learners of all ages a place where they can progress, upskill, reskill and innovate without ever having to leave Wexford. It will support learners to reach their full potential by creating pathways and removing barriers to access. Today’s announcement demonstrates the commitment that I and my department have to both our technological sector and ETB sector. These sectors are drivers of regional and national development by supporting learners to achieve the skills level required to succeed both nationally and globally.”

President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell said that SETU “welcomes the opportunity to work with WWETB to realise a shared vision for expanding contemporary educational opportunities in Wexford and the wider region. Third-level education plays a significant role in developing skills, innovation and economic resilience. As the only university in the region, SETU is committed to playing its role in supporting regional growth and meeting the evolving needs of learners, employers and communities.”

She was supported by the chief executive of WWETB, Dr Karina Daly, who said the establishment of a new campus in Wexford would see the “delivery of high quality education and training to meet the changing needs of learners and employers, supporting growth and opportunity across the region.”

Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe, said: “WCC is pleased to be playing a key role in the acquisition of lands in Wexford town for the delivery of this education campus and are delighted to be joined by Minister James Lawless today. This milestone marks a major step forward in expanding access to quality education, developing a talented workforce which will act as a catalyst in attracting investors and supporting the knowledge economy, promoting opportunities for socio economic growth in Co Wexford.”