Calls made for delivery of SETU Veterinary School
At present, the South East Technological University (SETU) is currently involved in a three-way competition with the University of Limerick and the Atlantic Technological University to determine which institution will host Ireland’s newest Vet School, the first outside Dublin.
Independent TD in Waterford Matt Shanahan is calling for a unified political front from South East Oireachtas members to deliver a new Veterinary School to SETU.
At present, the South East Technological University (SETU) is currently involved in a three-way competition with the University of Limerick and the Atlantic Technological University to determine which institution will host Ireland’s newest Vet School, the first outside Dublin.
According to Deputy Shanahan, SETU leadership has invited South East Oireachtas members to a review meeting to take place in Kildalton College in the near future, which will review the Kildalton and SETU site facilities that showcase the ability of the university to "hit the ground running" in terms of a new Veterinary School award.
Speaking on the development, Deputy Shanahan criticised Taoiseach Simon Harris for not delivering to date.
“Despite copious and frequent promises made by Taoiseach Harris as Higher Education minister, the vaunted delivery of capital to advance teaching and accommodation opportunity, new governance and borrowing frameworks to underpin high-level faculty awards has still not happened for SETU.
“The historic and contemporary lack of adequate spend in the south-east third level education sector is evident in the crippling brain drain and the missing economic benefits to regional quality employment and salaries over many years."
The Deputy added: “From my perspective as a Waterford TD, any failure by Government now to deliver on promises made to SETU regarding a new Veterinary School will be an absolute betrayal of student families and educators in the South East region.
“Although his government colleagues will disagree and defend, such failure will mark Simon Harris as the Minister who promised much to the south east, but as Taoiseach delivered little... our south east Oireachtas members, particularly those in government parties, must ensure this Veterinary School is awarded."
Speaking in the Seanad earlier this year, Senator John Cummins said: “In terms of course development, SETU have submitted very strong bids for new pharmacy and veterinary medicine disciplines, as well as an expansion of their nursing school.
"These are obviously competitive calls, which are currently being assessed by the HEA, however it would be my hope that we can get approval for at least two out of three of these requests.”
