Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
235. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the up-to-date position on reducing delays for craft apprenticeships under phases 4 and 6 off-the-job training placements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67563/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has demonstrated a significant commitment to apprenticeships through sustained investment. In Budget 2026, I secured an additional €79 million for apprenticeship delivery, bringing total funding to over €410 million—a 120% increase since 2020.
This investment has supported substantial growth in the apprenticeship system. Annual craft apprenticeship registrations have risen by 63%, from 4,377 in 2020 to 7,113 in 2024.
In addition, I recently announced a €20.5 million capital investment to expand provision in Higher Education Institutions for phases 4 and 6 off-the-job training. This will deliver 99 craft training blocks and 8 consortia-led equipment projects, creating approximately 1,600 additional training places.
Apprentices must complete a minimum of 26 weeks in phase 3 on-the-job training before progressing to phase 4 off-the-job training, and similarly between phases 5 and 6. This ensures apprentices acquire the necessary skills before advancing. Progression depends on successful completion of prior phases. Scheduling for phases 4 and 6 aligns with the academic calendar, which can also affect timing.
The apprenticeship system operates on a continuous intake basis. Maintaining a steady pipeline of apprentices is essential to ensure full classes and maximise value for money. Classes are scheduled on a rolling basis throughout the year, and smaller trades may require longer on-the-job phases to optimise workshop capacity.
SOLAS monitors scheduling across all trades to ensure efficient delivery and minimise delays.
