The country’s second-oldest university level institution, based in Co Carlow, is to close.
Carlow College, St Patrick’s, is to phase its closure over a two-year period as South East Technological University (SETU) is to take control of the campus. All current students – more than 600 – will have completed courses by 2028.
The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate and part-time courses in arts and the humanities.
Almost 90 staff at the college, which is based on a campus of 17 acres, are to be made redundant.
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The college was founded in 1782 and first admitted students in 1793. It is described by the college as Ireland’s second oldest university, after Trinity College Dublin.
Its history includes educating both lay students and those preparing for the priesthood.
College management has confirmed that an agreement has been reached with SETU and the move is being backed by Minister for Higher Education James Lawless.
In a statement the college said it was “committed” to engaging openly and respectfully with staff and union representatives over job losses.
Fr Conn Ó Maoldhomhnaigh, president of Carlow College, St Patrick’s, said the merger process “reflects the continuation of its long-standing contribution to education” in the region.
He said the college’s “priority” was to ensure a “carefully planned completion” of all academic programmes over the next two years, so that “every student” enrolled could complete their studies and affected staff could be supported.
The college started an engagement process with the State in February 2022 on its long-term future in the higher education sector.
Fr Ó Maoldhomhnaigh outlined that the decision to transfer the college’s land and buildings to SETU was made with “due regard to the best interests of our students and staff, and in recognition of the College’s long and distinguished contribution to liberal arts education”.
Lawless said: “For over 240 years, Carlow College has made an outstanding contribution to higher education, not only in the south-east but nationally. Its strong tradition in the liberal arts and its deep connection to community life have left a lasting impact which should be recognised and valued.”
