Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 December 2025
443. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps being taken to address employer concerns that the current funding model for culinary apprenticeships is not financially viable; whether the programme will be aligned with the support provided to other apprenticeships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72661/25]
View answerAt the end of November 2025, the apprenticeship population included 190 Commis Chef apprentices, 17 Chef de Partie apprentices and three Sous Chef apprentices. These are all consortia-led, post-2016 programmes. In the cases of all consortia-led apprenticeship programmes, a consortium that is chaired by industry meets regularly to review the content and structure of programmes and ensure alignment with industry needs.An annual grant of €2,000 per apprentice was introduced for employers of apprentices completing consortia-led programmes.
Additionally, the Traveller Apprenticeship Incentivisation Programme (TAIP) offers bursaries to both apprentices and their employers. Employers who employ apprentices who are travellers can avail of a grant of €2,000.Investing in Ireland's apprenticeship system is a priority for government - in Budget 2026 I secured an additional €79 million investment in apprenticeship delivery - the largest since the formation of my department.
The Government will publish a new national action plan for apprenticeship in 2026. My Department will be launching a public consultation shortly to seek the views of all stakeholders, including employers, on the apprenticeship system.
