Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2025
978. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if his Department plans to increase the current estimate of funding from the National Training Fund for Springboard of €27,550 since 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32591/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFunded by the National Training Fund (NTF) and managed by the Higher Education Authority on behalf of my Department, Springboard provides free or heavily subsidised upskilling and reskilling opportunities and builds the supply of skilled graduates to meet the evolving needs of the Irish economy. The 2025 allocation provides €27.55 million to improve the skills of those currently in employment whilst an additional allocation of €6.89 million will assist individuals in returning to employment.
It is important to note that any increase in NTF expenditure, all other things being equal and without a corresponding reduction on the Vote, requires an increase in the Department’s and the overall Government expenditure ceilings. In addition, as the Deputy will appreciate, decisions on budget allocations will be made in the context of Government decision-making on the fiscal and expenditure framework for 2026, consistent with the budgetary and Estimates process to be agreed by Government in the coming weeks.
