From derelict site to state-of-the-art facility

A €10 million state-of-the-art enterprise development, training and research facility had been opened in a Gaeltacht area of Cork.

The new Campas Íosagáin, located in Baile Bhuirne in Gaeltacht Mhuscraí follows a full restoration project which has transformed the former derelict site of Coláiste Íosagáin into a state-of-the-art enterprise centre.

The facility includes a gTeic digital and innovation hub, aimed at fostering economic growth and innovation in the local Gaeltacht community and beyond.

In addition, Campas Íosagáin will also continue the long tradition of learning at the site, through the provision of training facilities, extending third level institutions into the Gaeltacht.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary officially opened the new Campas Íosagáin.

An Taoiseach said: “The scale of collective investment in Campas Íosagáin speaks to the level of ambition shown by project partners. Investing in ambitious and strategic large-scale projects like Campas Íosagáin will have a transformative impact in our rural and Gaeltacht communities across Ireland.”

Also speaking at the opening, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer said: “As Minister for Community Development, I see first-hand the importance of projects like Campas Íosagáin in supporting the sustainable regeneration and development of our towns and villages.

“The many benefits that will derive from this landmark project will be significant not just for Baile Bhuirne and its surrounds, but also for Co. Cork and the wider region.”

The project, which has received funding of almost €10 million, saw an investment of more than €3.4 million from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), more than €3.7 million from Údarás na Gaeltachta, and a further €2.7 million under Enterprise Ireland’s Regional Enterprise Development Fund.