Tánaiste Joan Burton was in IT Blanchardstown (ITB) today to launch a major expansion of the Institute’s horticulture facility.
Speaking at the launch, the Tánaiste said: “I am delighted to see that ITB’s links with enterprise and policy makers has led to the expansion of the Horticulture facility. This investment of €1.25m will open new and exciting opportunities for staff and students alike.
“I know that you have been successfully delivering full and part-time horticulture courses, which have been designed in collaboration with private companies, enterprise, local authorities and industry representatives.
“I am delighted also to see that work placement is a significant part of the horticulture programme at ITB, with students securing placement across the industry. This gives them a taster of the business of horticulture and introduces them to major players in the industry, and more importantly leads to greater employable outcomes for graduates.
“In addition ITB actively promotes community involvement by organising work placements for their horticultural students in a number of local schools and the James Connolly Memorial Hospital.
“I hear that some students are currently working closely with Fingal Co. Council in the Shackelton Walled Garden project which is offering them a rare and unique opportunity to be part of a significant Irish restoration project. In the future this new horticulture facility could be pivotal in developing research opportunities for staff and students in horticulture.”
The Tánaiste spoke about the growth of ITB since its inception: “ITB has played an important role in third level education within the Dublin 15 area and its surrounds. This particular part of Dublin has changed almost beyond recognition since 1999 but ITB has continued to be a strong focus for high quality higher education opportunities to its growing population, drawing school leavers from the hinterland of the college. ITB is now the college of choice for schools in the immediate area.
“I know that the Governing Body of ITB, has been instrumental in supporting the establishment of the Dublin Technological University Alliance (DTUA) which comprises IT Blanchardstown, Dublin Institute of Technology and IT Tallaght.
“Over the last three years the Alliance has been laying the foundations to ensure that the capability and appropriate plans are in place to create a new university that will help transform the lives of the people in the greater Dublin area and Ireland.
“Finally, I am honoured to be asked to officially open the institute’s new horticulture facility, and wish all staff and students involved in this discipline every success in the future.”
