Upgrade to university could create 736 jobs

AN ADDITIONAL 736 jobs could be created in Waterford and the south-east if Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) were upgraded to a university, the local Chamber of Commerce says.

The chamber is hosting an economic conference this Friday, April 7, focusing on the jobs claim and the need to boost the region’s appeal as a major jobs hub.

According to a Goodbody report commissioned by the chamber, a university for Waterford would not only see employment generated by the institute increase by over 50% on current levels (1,479 to 2,215), but would also generate €97.6 million for the local economy, an increase of almost 50% on the current figure of €65.5m.