New life has been given to old buildings at Limerick's Institute of Technology.

Refurbished buildings now house the Institute's new School of Art and Design.

Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe said the finished building project has retained links to the past, while pointing to a new era of creativity for some 600 students.

Speaking at the official opening of LIT's School of Art and Design, Minister O'Keeffe said the campus was 'alive with a sense of renewal'.

"Once the Good Sheppard Convent, the new School of Art and Design is now a bustling centre of activity for more than 600 students," he said.

-- Advertisement --

"It took vision to take these distinctive buildings and regenerate them as an inspiring location for the study of art and design."

The Minister paid tribute to LIT's staff, the design team and the contractors for their efforts in maintaining the convent's architecture and history, while meeting the needs of a modern third-level campus.

"The refurbishment of buildings dating as far back as the mid-19th century was a daunting project but the new lecture halls, workshops and studios attest strongly to this institution's commitment to its students," said Minister O'Keeffe.

He said the School of Art and Design has developed over 157 years but it always maintained a reputation for excellence.

"The school is now the largest of its kind outside Dublin and its fashion students have consistently competed for national awards.

"The graduates have always taken their skills and training far and wide and I look forward to enjoying their continued artistic and cultural contributions to this city and country," added the minister.

(PR/KMcA)