County Wexford Chamber welcomes the announcement of the Technological University for the Southeast, with approval for 2022. The Technological University is a significant step forward for the region and will bring many opportunities to the people of County Wexford.
The long-awaited university will see the merger of IT Carlow with Waterford Institute of Technology, which will increase access to higher education, attract people back to the local economy and increase opportunities for students, staff, businesses, and local communities across County Wexford.
President of County Wexford Chamber Brendan Crowley said “The benefits of having a university campus in the county cannot be underestimated. Apart from opportunities for students from Wexford to study within the county, we look forward to the day when we welcome students from other parts of the country coming to Wexford to study through a choice of programmes aligned with their career hopes and dreams. The scope for collaboration and synergies between existing and new businesses is massive, particularly when you consider the potential for Rosslare Port to become a major support centre for the energy industry. Likewise, university towns attract many visitors thus supporting the night-time economy and assuring Wexford’s place as a “Purple Flag” location which is the internationally accredited award for excellence in the night-life of a town or city.”
Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy said “Today is a very positive step forward and long overdue. The announcement will bring many opportunities to County Wexford, attracting foreign direct investment. The new Technological University will also provide further support to industries, greater innovation, and a larger variety of skills to businesses within County Wexford.”
With the timeframe extended until May, it provides time for a conclusion to be reached in IT Carlow’s acquisition of a site in Wexford town for a new college campus.
