Fine Gael Waterford Deputy, Paudie Coffey, has welcomed news from the Minister for Education and Skills that the criteria for technological universities will be published in 'the relatively near future'.

Deputy Coffey revealed this information by way of a Parliamentary Question last week.

"There is a clear commitment in the Programme for Government to explore the establishment of a multi-campus Technical University in the South East, and this is a commitment that I will continue to pursue in the Dáil on behalf of the people of Waterford. The information revealed to me, and to the Dáil, this week outlines that progress is being made on this critical issue.

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"The Minister for Education stated that the criteria for technological universities will be published in the near future, and that any Institutes of Technology that wish to come together to evolve into technological universities will need to engage in talks as a pre-cursor to any further developments.

"I am aware that both WIT and Carlow IT are currently in talks, which is extremely welcome as both Waterford and the South East region are in need of a Technological University to create and sustain investment and jobs.

"I intend to work with all of my colleagues in the South East to ensure that this is progress is furthered and delivered upon in the course of this Dáil. This will not be done overnight as there will be obstacles to overcome, however, it is my firm belief that if we work together this can, and will, be achieved. I look forward to further advancements over the coming months in respect of this issue."

(CD/GK)