Vice-Chair of the Jobs, Social Protection & Education Committee
Labour Party TD for Dublin North Central
Monday, 14th May 2012
Labour Party TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has today welcomed the announcement that €39.7 million is to be provided for the upgrade of structural facilities at St. Patrick's Teacher Education College, Drumcondra.
Deputy Ó Ríordáin stated: "Minister Quinn's announcement today is a welcome development for St. Pat's and this funding will do a lot to improve and upgrade facilities at the College. St Patrick's College is an extremely important educational Institution on the Northside of Dublin and this investment is a huge vote of confidence in its future.
"This investment will do a lot to ease over-crowding and when these works are complete the College will be able to accommodate 2,500 students. In addition, lecture theatres, science labs and disabled facilities will also be upgraded in order to provide the best learning environment for our student teachers.
"Coupled with this, the extra funding announced today by the department will provide approximately 400 direct and indirect jobs over the next two years.
"It is a testament to the Minister that even with our difficult fiscal situation; he is prioritising funds where they are needed most in our education system. This major refurbishment project will do a lot to enhance the learning experience of our student teachers and ensure that they have the best facilities to progress their studies."
