Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
1169. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the uptake of apprenticeships across the country in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6245/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has prioritised investment in apprenticeships. In Budget 2026, €79 million investment was secured to expand apprenticeship delivery. This brings total current investment in apprenticeship to over €410 million, representing an increase of more than 120% in funding since 2020, the year in which my department was established.This investment has directly supported a 77% increase in apprentice registrations, rising from 5,326 in 2020 to 9,461 at the end of 2025. I am determined that the significant progress in growing and developing Ireland's apprenticeship system will continue. This year, the Government will publish a new Action Plan for Apprenticeship for the period 2026–2030. A Programme for Government commitment, the Action Plan will set a headline target of 12,500 annual registrations by 2030, with two-thirds in craft and construction-related areas. On 19 December, Minister Harkin and I launched a public consultation on the new Action Plan, which will remain open until 16 February. I am inviting all interested parties to participate - the consultation is available on the Gov.ie website under the consultation section.
