Minister Lawless turns the sod for Kilkenny and Carlow Further Education and Training capital investment

Minister Lawless turns the sod for Kilkenny and Carlow Further Education and Training capital investment at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus under the Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Programme

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, turned the sod for building works at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus as part of the Further Education and Training (FET) Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Programme (SIUP).

The Department’s Sectoral Plan provides the framework for capital investment planning across the higher and further education and research sectors, including the identification of priority projects. This project will see the removal of the existing prefabricated buildings and replacing them with a new multi-purpose educational facility. This new build will consist of classrooms, canteen facilities, laundry, tack room and ancillary accommodation. The works, which will take approximately fourteen months to complete are being undertaken by local firm, Ormonde Construction Limited.

The development will also include for associated ancillary site works including roadways and footpaths, car parking areas, public roadway upgrade works, and associated drainage. Works will also include an upgrade to the existing fire alarm and emergency lighting systems.

Strategically, this project reflects KCETB’s commitment to developing world-class learning environments that support skills development, regional economic growth and learner success. As a nationally recognised centre for horsemanship and equine studies, our Equestrian Campus plays a vital role in preparing learners for careers in Ireland’s globally significant equine sector, while also creating pathways into employment and further study.

This investment demonstrates the importance of sustained collaboration between KCETB, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and SOLAS in building the infrastructure required to meet future skills needs and support thriving communities across Kilkenny, Carlow and the wider South East.

Speaking today, Minister Lawless said: “I am delighted that this project has progressed to this important milestone for this unique facility that provides the foundations where potential meets performance. The training courses in Thomastown provide the skills required for horsemanship and equine studies which are very important industries in the south-east region and beyond. I am happy to see the FET sector playing its part in specialist skills development and providing pathways to employment.”

Minister Lawless added: “On completion, this facility will help provide other education opportunities that will facilitate learners in reaching their full potential. I would like to thank Dr Lindsay Malone, CE of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board, and her dedicated staff, SOLAS, the Design Team along with my own Department colleagues for all their hard work to get this project to this significant stage.”

Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said: “This project represents a structural leap forward for further education and training in Ireland, providing a dedicated space where passion meets modern professionalism. Our equine sector thrives on unparalleled tradition, but its future relies on cutting-edge skills, rigorous safety, and the highest standards of animal welfare. By investing in this facility, we are giving learners an excellent training environment to master their craft. We are creating a launchpad for the future leaders, handlers, and innovators of our global equine industry.”

Director of Further Education and Training (FET) for KCETB Martha Bolger said: “The entire staff at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus in Thomastown, are delighted with the news that developments to create new purpose-built teaching and learning spaces are now underway. This capital injection will transform the learning experience for the students who choose to undertake Horsemanship at the College of FET every year to study for careers in the equine industry.”

CEO of SOLAS, Deirdre McDonnell said: “SOLAS welcomes the commencement of works at College of FET, Kilkenny, Equestrian Campus. This investment in modern facilities and specialist equipment is essential to strengthening the quality of Further Education and Training. This development will enhance the learning environment, support specialist skills development, and help provide clear pathways into employment in the equine industry. We are delighted to support Kilkenny and Carlow ETB in delivering this important project for learners and the wider south-east region.”