Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports and Leader of the Independent Group of Ministers, Seán Canney TD, has welcomed a significant Government investment of more than €2.8 million aimed at fostering inclusive environments across Ireland’s higher education system—with Galway institutions playing a central role.

The funding, announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD under the Inclusive Environment Fund (PATH 4), will support tertiary institutions in enhancing accessibility, tackling prejudice and racism, and fostering a greater sense of belonging among students—particularly those from marginalised and underrepresented backgrounds.

Speaking following the announcement, Minister Canney said: “I am particularly proud to see Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and the University of Galway among the key beneficiaries of this important fund. These institutions are at the forefront of making higher education in Galway—and indeed across the west—more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for all students.

ATU played a leading role in the development of the ALTITUDE Charter, a landmark framework for embedding Universal Design in third-level education, which is now being formally adopted nationwide. Its leadership demonstrates the innovation and commitment to equity that characterise Galway’s third-level sector. Together with the University of Galway’s strong record in access and inclusion, this is a hugely positive step for students in our region.”

The Inclusive Environment Fund builds on earlier PATH 4 investments and will support initiatives such as the development of sensory campus maps for autistic learners, enhanced student services, and anti-racism measures. Projects supported by this funding will run until the end of 2026.

The announcement coincides with the first round of tertiary institutions—including ATU and the University of Galway—formally adopting the ALTITUDE Charter, which outlines a strategic and holistic approach to creating inclusive, universally designed educational environments. The Charter was developed through a national cross-sectoral collaboration and launched in March 2024.

This investment aligns with the goals of the National Access Plan 2022–2028, which aims to ensure that the diversity of Irish society is reflected across all levels of the higher education system.