Sir, – Seán Flynn (January 17th) reports that technological university status is certain for Waterford institute of technology after a decade-long campaign.
Could I clarify for historical accuracy that Waterford sought to be a constituent college of the NUI in a campaign in 1936 when the local De La Salle teacher training college was closed by the then government. That campaign was reactivated in 1956, as a result of which Waterford Regional Technical College was opened in 1969. The campaign for access to degree courses led to the establishment of a Waterford and South East University Action Group in 1985. This group, which I joined, was established by a late mayor of Waterford, Alderman Liam Curham and was further progressed through the tremendous work of Oliver Clery. His committee was at the forefront of the campaign which saw WRTC being elevated to WIT in 1995.
The campaign has continued unabated ever since in pursuit of educational equality for Waterford city and the south east region.
Technological university status for the region would not be before its time. – Yours, etc,