In 2024, my Department commissioned the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) to develop a structured evaluation road map for the National Training Fund (NTF) to support systematic monitoring and assessment of the effectiveness of NTF-funded schemes. The research examined the extent to which individual NTF schemes can be robustly evaluated, identifying the most appropriate methodological approach for each scheme in light of its objectives, and assessing the adequacy of existing data infrastructure in meeting evaluation requirements.
The resulting report, Roadmap for an Evaluation of the National Training Fund, was published by the ESRI on its website in December 2025. My officials are currently considering the report’s findings and recommendations.
In line with section 2 (14) of the National Training Fund Act 2000, the Comptroller and Auditor-General (C&AG) audits the NTF accounts annually. The audited accounts are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas each year; the accounts for 2024 were laid before the Houses on 20 February 2026.
The annual accounts include a breakdown of expenditure under each programme and by recipient. The 2025 accounts have been drafted and are currently awaiting audit by the C&AG.
