Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
1272. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the additional funding allocated to employer-led Skillnet networks and Regional Skills Fora Managers since 2022 to boost SME engagement and regional capacity, as called for by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will provide a regional breakdown showing expenditure in rural and agri-food areas. [34745/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraSkillnet Ireland supports 68 Skillnet Business Networks and several national talent initiatives that operate nationally. Of these, 23 multi-sector Skillnet Business Networks and three national initiatives are dedicated to supporting the regional skills development of businesses in Ireland. 93% of companies supported by Skillnet Ireland are SMEs with a wide range of upskilling supports available to development SME management capability, digital skills and technical skills across most sectors.
The Regional Skills Fora (RSF) support employers to address current and future skills needs by strengthening links with the education and training system. They help businesses access the right supports, influence training provision to build a skilled workforce. Funding is provided for nine regional skills managers, a regional skills co-ordinator and operating costs. The nine managers are the single contact point in each region to help employers connect with the range of services and supports available across the education and training ecosystem.
The RSF is a key element of the Irish skills ecosystem. They bring together higher and further education providers, enterprise agencies, employers and representatives from government departments to work together to promote lifelong learning, support enterprise and to drive innovation.
In 2025, the RSF engaged with over 2,100 businesses and over 60% of all engagements were with SMEs.
The RSF complements Skillnet Ireland’s delivery role by strengthening regional engagement and skills intelligence, ensuring that enterprise-led training is responsive, targeted, and aligned with both regional and national priorities. This engagement is supported through quarterly Regional Skills Fora meetings with Skillnet Ireland.
The table below outlines funding allocations to Skillnet Ireland and the RSF since 2022.
|
Year |
Skillnet Ireland Core Funding € |
Regional Skills Fora Funding € |
|
2022 |
36,898,000 |
1,767,000 |
|
2023 |
38,898,000 |
1,815,000 |
|
2024 |
41,498,000 |
2,265,000 |
|
2025 |
51,498,000 |
2,170,000 |
|
2026 |
51,498,000 |
2,170,000 |
In addition, between 2022-2024, Skillnet Ireland was allocated temporary funding for Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) and COVID measures. In 2026, temporary funding of €2.7 million is allocated to Skillnet Ireland, bringing their overall allocation to €54.198 million this year.
