An extensive building programme has already provided the Shannon college with top class facilities. Much help in the fundraising has come over the years from the alumni.

Phase one of the new college buildings was completed in 1992. The second phase, a £2 million building, was opened last October by the Minister for Public Enterprise, Mrs O'Rourke.

The funds for this new building were raised from graduates, hotel companies, other firms associated with the industry, philanthropists and some Irish-American foundations. Aer Rianta, which owns the college and runs it on a nonprofit making basis, made a substantial contribution to match that of other donors.

The new building is designed to allow the college to expand its activities, including taking in many more international students and increasing international language teaching.

Teaching facilities in the new block include an integrated computer network and full Internet facilities. Students are accommodated in two apartment blocks close to the college.

The building programme is due to completed in three years time.