Erin McGreehan, Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, has welcomed the formal endorsement of an Official Heads of Agreement between Dundalk Institute of Technology and Queen’s University Belfast, highlighting the shared commitment to cross border collaboration in teaching and learning, research and innovation and institutional engagement.
The signing of the Official Heads of Agreement formalises a strategic partnership that will see Dundalk Institute of Technology become a University College of Queen’s University Belfast. Under the agreement, DkIT will transition from an institute of technology to a University College within the Queen’s framework.
From September 2026, students enrolling at DkIT will study within Queen’s academic and quality assurance frameworks and will graduate with a Queen’s University Belfast degree or postgraduate qualification.
Speaking following the signing, Deputy McGreehan, who is also the Cathaoirleach of the Oireachtas Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said:
“Today’s signing paves the way for DkIT to become the first ‘all-Ireland university’ on the island.
“This represents a profound opportunity for both students and for County Louth, opening the door to future growth, expansion and new educational offerings.”
The Deputy added that the people of Dundalk have always been ambitious for what DkIT can deliver as a third level institution. She noted that a change in status is long overdue, given its regional importance and the fact that many institutes of technology have undergone similar transitions in recent years.
Concluding, Deputy McGreehan said:
“Sustained work is now required on all sides to ensure the continued growth of DkIT as an academic institution. By working closely with Queen’s University Belfast, I believe this partnership can deliver significant opportunities for young people in Louth and beyond who want to develop skills and help build Ireland’s future.”
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