Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
1257. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on Skillnet Ireland; the areas in the country where Skillnet is operational; the courses and training provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12133/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides financial support to Skillnet Ireland through the National Training Fund. Core funding for Skillnet Ireland has grown by 56.5%, from €32.9 million in 2020 to €51.5 million in 2026. This reflects the Government’s strong commitment to enterprise-led workforce development.
An additional €2.7 million in temporary funding is allocated to Skillnet Ireland this year to fund a range of targeted initiatives that will address findings arising from the OECD Review of Ireland’s Skills Strategy and government priorities in housing and climate action. This brings the total allocation to Skillnet Ireland to €54.2 million in 2026.
Skillnet Ireland advised my officials that it provides targeted upskilling supports to over 24,000 businesses, 91% of which are SMEs, and 90,000 employees each year through its 69 Skillnet business networks and upskilling initiatives. These business networks support local companies of all sizes to identify and address current and future skills needs and provide information regarding successful approaches to learning and talent development.
In 2024, Skillnet Ireland delivered 10,404 training programmes with companies and workers from all 26 counties, in areas such as technical training, management development, digital skills and mentoring supports. For example, Skillnet Ireland provided digitalisation and AI related training to 14,700 trainees and 7,700 trainees within the area of climate and sustainability nationwide.
The Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy is dedicated to enhancing the skills and capabilities of Ireland’s workforce in the offshore wind energy sector, aligning with Ireland’s net-zero targets for 2050, and providing a pipeline of skilled workers. The Skillnet Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Accelerate supports the upskilling of the construction and infrastructure workforce by showcasing MMC innovations, highlighting upcoming projects and training programmes, and mapping out career pathways.
Ensuring balanced regional development is a key priority for Skillnet Ireland. In the Deputy’s home county, Skillnet Ireland offers supports through Cork Chamber Skillnet, BioPharmaChem Skillnet, Duhallow Skillnet and Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet in addition to programmes from many other national Skillnets including IFS Skillnet, Law Society Skillnet, Farm Business Skillnet, among others.
Businesses can contact their local Skillnet Ireland Network to access upskilling supports and subsidised training programmes. More information can also be found on the Skillnet Ireland website, and the National Enterprise Hub, the Government’s one-stop shop for businesses to learn about the range of government support programmes available.
