President of TUS Professor Vincent Cunnane
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has this afternoon (Monday December 12, 2022) welcomed the publication of the Interim Report of the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce, which outlines the estuary’s potential to be the premier location for offshore renewable energy in Ireland, as well as a significant transport hub.
TUS Dean of Flexible and Workplace Learning Seamus Hoyne is a member of the taskforce made up of industry and academic leaders charged with evaluating the economic development potential of the area, and determining how this potential can be realised in both an economically and environmentally sustainable way.
Congratulating the Taskforce on its work to date and assuring the Taskforce TUS’s support in developing the estuary, President of TUS Professor Vincent Cunnane said, “The objectives of the report are ambitious yet achievable utilising the untapped resources of the Shannon estuary in a practical and sustainable way. It sets out a vision that will maximise the renewable energy resources in the region, both on-shore and off-shore, which will in turn generate significant employment opportunities in the manufacture, installation and maintenance of energy systems while also addressing climate and security of supply issues.
“This plan has the potential to positively impact the communities in this region as the knock-on effects will impact business, regional development, rural sustainability as well as education and research. Our education capacity and Research and Development (RDI) expertise will meet the growing needs of the sector. Our network of experts across Europe through our membership of RUN-EU, also provides us with access to expertise to deliver on the growing needs of our region.”
Meanwhile Mr Hoyne, Dean of Flexible and Workplace Learning said he was delighted to be engaged in the Taskforce and working with regional leaders.
TUS Dean of Flexible and Workplace Learning and member of Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce Seamus Hoyne
“TUS is ready to support this vision which will benefit not just the region but the country as a whole. We already provide work ready graduates in engineering, environmental science, construction, finance, business and other areas that will meet the skill needs required to make this vision a reality. We also have a proven track record of working with industry, as well as the flexibility and agility required to adapt our programme provision, to meet emerging needs.”
“We are delighted to see the opportunities outlined in the report extend beyond infrastructure and are especially pleased that logistics and tourism have been highlighted as these sectors have significant growth potential.”
To read the full statement from the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment see here: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/news-and-events/department-news/2022/december/202212121.html