Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
797. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will establish a national apprenticeship or traineeship programme for thatching, given the urgent need to preserve this endangered heritage craft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36465/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt present, there is no thatching apprenticeship programme. My department does not play a direct role in creating apprenticeship programmes. As apprenticeships in Ireland are industry-led, the development of a new apprenticeship programme involves forming a consortium and making an application with SOLAS through a structured process.
SOLAS welcomes proposals from industry-led groups and can provide guidance for those interested in developing an apprenticeship. SOLAS and the Higher Education Authority (HEA) are currently undertaking a review of the apprenticeship development process. The goal of the review is to develop more efficient and effective processes to develop and approve new apprenticeships, taking on board stakeholder feedback gathered since the inception of the current 10-step process
There are other options outside of apprenticeship available for those wishing to learn thatching. Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) have recently developed a Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 5 training course for individuals wishing to pursue a career as a thatcher in Ireland. This course was launched in January 2025 in partnership with the Heritage Council.
The programme aims to support the preservation of traditional thatching techniques and ensure these skills are passed on to future generations. To date, KCETB has advised that 14 learners have participated in the programme. The course is delivered on a full-time basis over 42 weeks and, in addition to developing core thatching skills, includes a six-week work placement with thatchers across Ireland.
