Government 'must have plan' to ensure success of Limerick-based technological university

‘PLANS must be in place’ for securing the future of a Limerick third level education institution, following the launch of a three year plan of ‘success’. 

The President of Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), formerly Limerick Institute of Technology, has warned that the Government must have a strategy going forward in order for the educational sector to thrive

Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of TUS, made his comments, this Friday, t the launch of the inaugural TUS Strategic Plan 2023 – 2026.

Emergency services attend fire in Limerick city centre

He said: “The powers to continue the transformation of this critical sector lies not solely in the hands of TUS, but rather in the hands of the Government and the wider civil service. 

“Government must not only recognise the many significant changes that have taken place, but also ensure that possibilities become probabilities and realities.”

The transition from a technological institute to a technological university took place in 2021 and the whole of the TU chain is made up of six campuses, more than 15,000 students and up to 2,000 staff members across the Mid-West.

President Cunnane continued by saying: “I refer in particular to the need for new organisational structures and the need for a borrowing capacity, which would allow us to build student accommodation. 

“As I said this is a new entity. A new sector. A new beginning – it is TUS!”

Speaking about the need for a strong and connected student union, Niall Naughton, TUS Student Union President, said: “We are excited that this strategic plan has clear synergies with the strategic plan for our student’s union.

“The need for a strong and connected student union has never been greater and we are excited to support this plan and to ensure that we are always aiming to further develop the student experience.”