Minister Lawless announces over €41 million investment in higher education institutions
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD today announced a €41 million devolved capital grant allocation for higher education institutions for 2026/2027.
This funding will benefit 19 higher education institutions including 12 Universities, two Institutes of Technology and five smaller colleges.
The Devolved Capital Grant can be used to support small-scale building works including energy efficiency and decarbonisation upgrades, health and safety works, access upgrades, refurbishment and equipment purchase or renewal including ICT.
Speaking today, Minister Lawless said: “I am delighted to announce this €41 million investment, which will help our higher education institutions deliver sustainable, safe and future-ready campuses. These colleges and universities are central to Ireland’s innovation and talent pipeline and they need facilities that reflect that ambition.
"While inflation has eased compared to previous years, it remains a key factor in planning and delivering capital works. This funding gives institutions the certainty they need to move forward with essential upgrades as we head towards 2026.
“The provision of this significant funding for minor capital works, refurbishment and equipment renewal ensures that our higher education institutions can keep their infrastructure fit-for-purpose and operating sustainably. Appropriate levels of maintenance funding deliver real benefits, reducing unplanned downtime, extending asset lifespan and improving reliability and performance, while ensuring facilities remain up-to-date and aligned with climate objectives.”
Minister Lawless added: “This Department continues to provide the resources required to support our third-level sector in offering the best facilities and equipment to students and staff. By taking a strategic and planned approach to minor capital works, we allow sufficient lead-in time to comply with public financial procedures and the public spending code while enabling better sequencing and phasing of projects and equipment renewal. Our higher education institutions face substantial challenges in meeting climate targets and this grant will support them in making energy efficiency and decarbonisation upgrades. This funding reaffirms the Government’s commitment to higher education and to delivering world-class facilities.”
Elaine Vaughan, Head of Capital Programmes in the HEA added: “Today’s announcement of a Devolved Capital Grant of over €41 million will enable Higher Education Institutions to make necessary infrastructural improvements, energy efficiency and universal access upgrades as well as investments in equipment. This grant, which is provided through the HEA, supports a range of capital priorities across the higher education sector while enhancing the campus experience for students and staff."
