Fine Gael TD for Wexford, Minister Paul Kehoe, today launched the new Degree Programme for IT Carlow in Sustainable Farm Management and Agribusiness. Speaking at the launch of the programme at the Wexford Campus of Carlow IT, Minister Kehoe said;
“These programmes will be delivered here in Wexford by IT Carlow in collaboration with the IFA and Teagasc. It is an acknowledgement of the real commitment of these three organisations to the success of these programmes.
“The main focus is on preparing those who work, or who plan to work, in the farming and agri-food sector, for the challenges facing farming in the 21st century. These sectors have for centuries been the backbone of the Irish economy, competing at an international level and developing an Irish reputation for quality generations before other sectors.
“The sector has always adapted to change and courses such as those being developed here will continue to guarantee Ireland’s position as a world leader in this sector. These programmes are looking towards a changing environment in which the farmer will need to be as competent in operating a GPS system, or drawing up a business plan, as he or she will be in tending to animals or crops.
“Farmers also face the pressures of managing their farms in a more and more sustainable manner and meeting increasingly exacting environmental standards. This programme aims to provide students with the necessary skill set and knowledge to not only meet these challenges but to thrive in the face of these challenges. It is to be commended for its ambition.
“IT Carlow’s campus in Wexford is of immense importance to the county and the southeast region as a whole. I am delighted that the Higher Education Authority has granted permission to IT Carlow to acquire a 35 acre site in Wexford Town for the development of a new purpose built Wexford Campus.
“The creation of a multi campus Technological University for the South East remains a key ambition of this Government. Last July, the Government published Michael Kelly’s Report into the establishment of a Technological University for the South East and we hope to continue to make progress towards this goal.
“In Government we believe the South East has the potential for even better economic growth and even greater job creation and with the launch of the South East Action Plan for Jobs we which aim to build on this success and deliver a further 10 -15% employment growth for the region. A strong Technological University in the South East will help support these plans.
“Targeted, high quality and relevant education will ensure that our farmers and the agri-sector are able to compete in the global economy and that our rural communities can thrive and support a vibrant rural environment which is such a vital part of our Irish heritage.
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