€5m Government grant secured for NUIG and Galway/Mayo IT - Kitt

The National University of Ireland Galway and Galway Mayo IT have secured Government grants worth a combined €5 million to upgrade their equipment and carry out building works, according to Galway East Fianna Fáil TD Michael Kitt.

NUIG has been granted over €3.2 million, while Galway Mayo IT has secured more than €1.8 million as part of a scheme announced by the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills Mary Coughlan this week. The devolved grant scheme is provides a total of €42 million to third level institutions around the country to allow them to carry out a range of improvements.

Commenting on the investment, Deputy Kitt said, “This is a major boost for third level education across this region and it will benefit students, staff and the community.  Both NUIG and Galway Mayo IT have stretched themselves to deal with a record surge in demand for student places. This extra funding will allow them to carry out significant improvements to their facilities,” said Deputy Kitt.

“The money can be used to upgrade high-tech equipment used by students for a range of courses to ensure they have the best possible facilities. It can also go towards refurbishing the buildings, carrying out health and safety works and implementing energy conversation measures.”

“NUIG is a world class institution which attracts students from right across the country and abroad. Along with Galway Mayo IT, it is a vital part of our economy. Both institutions have worked hard to ensure that students’ needs are met despite increased pressures and financial constraints.  I welcome the fact that they will be able to manage the improvement projects themselves in order to target the areas most in need of development,” concluded Deputy Kitt.