Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, has welcomed the designation of the Technological University in the North-West and West.
Commenting on the designation, Ibec North-West Regional President, Seamus Hughes, said: "The establishment of a Technological University is an immensely positive achievement that will underpin the region's future economic and social progress. It is a testament to all involved in delivering a university of scale for the North-West and West regions.
"The University will support more balanced regional growth and will be a key enabler for the region to realise its potential for growth.
"A dynamic Technological University in the region will build the talent pipeline and significantly increase sustained investment in innovation and R&D. It will unleash the potential of the region to act as an anchor for innovation and high-tech skills development and will enable the region to develop, attract and retain talent, sustainable enterprises and high-quality jobs."
Ibec Senior Regional Policy Executive, Helen Leahy, said: "GMIT, IT Sligo and LYIT have individually made substantial contributions to the region’s economic and social development and have a strong track record of engagement with enterprise. A Technological University presents a unique opportunity to build upon this and strengthen further how enterprise and our education partners collaborate on strategic issues that underpin regional development and competitiveness.
"To realise the potential of the new institution and to add further capacity across the region, considerable investment will be required. A targeted and sufficient capital investment programme in physical teaching and research infrastructure must now be delivered for the Technological University to be a regional driver of economic growth and innovation."
