WATCH: Billion euro investment in education announced for Clare region

THE LIMERICK and Clare Education and Training Board (ETB) have announced an investment in the region of over €1 billion across its campuses as part of its newly unveiled five-year strategy.

Setting out its vision to enhance the quality of learning and life in the region, Strategy Statement 2022 – 2026 outlines the role the ETB will play over the five years of the plan.

This includes fulfilling the personal, social, economic and employability needs of the community it serves.

The launch, held at Shannon Airport, was attended by the ETB Senior Management Team, ETB staff and invited guests, including Niall Collins TD, Minister of State for Skills and Further Education, and other public representatives. 

An ensemble of students from Mungret Community College, an ETB post-primary school in Limerick, performed a medley of songs during the launch. 

Speaking at the launch, George O’Callaghan, Chief Executive, highlighted the role of the ETB with the investment, including rebuilding communities, workforces and the economy as we emerge from the pandemic:

“The ETB’s investment in the region over the 5 years of this plan will be in excess of €1 billion, comprising of an annual operating budget of over €170 million and an investment programme in excess of €150 million in new schools and Further Education and Training campuses.”

New education campus revealed for Limerick town

He also announced a significant investment in the area: “Part of the investment programme will be the development of a multi-million euro new College of Further Education and Training campus here in Shannon, incorporating a National Centre of Excellence for Aviation."

The new campus builds on a vocational training commitment in Shannon that dates back over 50 years, which Mr O' Callaghan said will continue to progress highly successful links with the ETB's aviation partners both in the region and nationally.

The aircraft engine apprenticeship will also be expanded to include a helicopter engine apprenticeship.

He concluded by saying: “I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the support of the Department of Education, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, as well as SOLAS who will be providing the funding for this major investment.”