New DCU science centre

Dublin City University yesterday celebrated the official opening of its £16

Dublin City University yesterday celebrated the official opening of its £16.75 million Biotechnology and Chemical Sciences building with an open day at the centre for second-level schools, part of DCU's contribution to Science Week Ireland.

The facility was opened by the Minister for Education and Science, Mr Martin, who toured the laboratories, lecture theatres and seminar rooms.

The new building will create 290 additional undergraduate places and 40 postgraduate research places. More than 1,400 students will be accommodated in the 10,000 sq metre complex.

The university's research facilities had always been placed at the disposal of Irish industry, said Prof Albert Pratt, director general of DCU.