The University of Ballina? Campaigner calls for local third-level facility

A campaigner hoping to bring the All-Ireland Fleadh to Ballina has said the town would benefit from the addition of a third-level education facility.

Eamonn Walsh, who has been actively pushing for the event to take place in Ballina in 2028, said recent investments into similar facilities in Castlebar prove that the demand is there for such a facility to be opened in Ballina.

“The Convent site is a ready-made educational complex and would be the perfect location for a third-level college and a major asset to the town providing an economic boost to the region."

Mr Walsh said young people in the region would be encouraged to pursue third-level education if such a facility was opened in the town.

“Young people from the region pursuing third-level education in the large cities are unable to source accommodation and exorbitant rent prices are forcing many students to abandon third-level college. It is imperative that pressure is put on the Minister for Higher Education to provide more regional third-level education facilities in towns like Ballina.”

With regards to the Fleadh campaign, Mr Walsh added that a third-level college in the town would bring further benefits.

“As Ballina earmarks the 2028 All-Ireland Fleadh, the addition of a third-level college in Ballina would cater for many major cultural events.

“A 2,000 seater dome, in addition to a number of smaller domes, will be required if Ballina is to secure the All-Ireland Fleadh due to the lack of a major venue or conference centre in the town centre.”