Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, paid his first visit to Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s (ETB) College of Further Education and Training (FET) Hospitality Campus in Roxboro, Limerick recently. The visit served as an opportunity to celebrate the many recent achievements of the campus, recognised as a European Centre of Excellence for hospitality training.
Minister Lawless was warmly welcomed by Bernadette Enright, Campus Manager, alongside Limerick and Clare ETB Chief Executive Bernadette Cullen, Director of Further Education and Training Paul Patton, and members of the ETB Senior Management Team. Also in attendance were notable guests including Dr. Pat Daly, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Minister Willie O’Dea TD, Dr. Loic Guyon, Honorary Consul of France in Limerick, and industry leaders such as Chef Stefan Matz, Group Executive Chef, iNua Collection and hotelier and former IHF President John Madden.
The visit began with a guided tour of the campus and its extensive training facilities. Minister Lawless met with learners and staff, engaging directly with students to hear their personal success stories and learning about the range of programmes offered, from barista training to advanced culinary programmes and hospitality management. The campus offers qualifications from Levels 4 to 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications, with courses ranging from 3-month entry-level programmes to two-year advanced training.
29-05-2025 Minister for Further & Higher Education, Innovation, Research & Science, James Lawless TD, is to visit the College of FET Hospitality Campus in Limerick. Picture: Keith Wiseman
Key themes explored during the visit included the campus’s EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) accreditation, strong industry partnerships, and impressive post-training employment outcomes. The Minister also learned about the campus’s involvement in international programmes such as FICAHT (France-Ireland Culinary Arts, Hospitality & Tourism Network), with recent honours including top awards at the 2025 Arras competition and the Chef Ireland National Culinary Competition at CATEX 2025.
During the formal reception in the campus’s training restaurant, guests were welcomed officially by Campus Manager Bernadette Enright, who spoke proudly about the campus’s achievements.
“We’re delighted to welcome Minister Lawless here today and to shine a spotlight on the the quality of training and commitment to excellence here at the Hospitality Campus and to highlight the significant impact not just locally, but on the national and international stage.”
Speaking about these achievements Chief Executive Bernadette Cullen, said: “The Hospitality Campus is not only a cornerstone of our regional education and training provision, but a national example of excellence in delivering high-quality, industry-led programmes. The work being done here by staff and learners is providing pathways to employment and supporting the development of Ireland’s hospitality and tourism sectors.”
Minister Lawless then addressed the gathering, commending the campus for its role in strengthening Ireland’s hospitality industry and its continued success in fostering talent and innovation.
Minister James Lawless meets with some of the Junior Chefs and mentor chefs in the busy kitchen at the Hospitality Campus.
The visit concluded with a special afternoon tea prepared by student chefs, featuring Limerick ham, poached crab, coronation chicken, egg mayonnaise, and freshly baked scones, offering guests a taste of the high-level culinary skill cultivated at the campus.
The College of FET Hospitality Campus continues to build strong links with the Irish and international hospitality industries and serves as a launchpad for learners pursuing careers in areas such as front-of-house operations, culinary arts, bar management, and tourism.
Recent accolades include a record-breaking performance at CATEX 2025, where the campus team brought home 17 Silver, 12 Gold, 12 National Champion Awards, and the coveted Food Safety Professional Hygiene Award. This remarkable success was led by a dedicated group of tutors and stand out learners including Apprentice of the Year winner Freddie Cullen, whose passion and skill exemplify the exceptional training environment instilled at the campus. Campus Manager Bernadette Enright was also honoured with a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the YesChef Ireland Awards 2025.
The recent visit by Minister Lawless further reinforces the College of FET Hospitality Campus status as a leader in the field of hospitality education and a cornerstone of the Limerick and Clare ETB’s commitment to excellence in further education and training.
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