Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
920. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the status of the review of specialist training programmes; when will this review be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47158/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraBy way of background for the Deputy, under Specialist Training Provision (STP), Education and Training Boards (ETBs) contract providers to deliver training to learners who need more intensive support than is available in mainstream FET settings. In 2026, over €45 million was allocated to STP, including more than €19 million for learner training allowances. In 2025, approximately 2,760 learners enrolled in STP.
SOLAS engaged independent consultants to review how STP operates and the outcomes for learners. The review is now complete. It involved extensive consultation and analysis, including interviews, surveys and focus groups with practitioners, ETBs, STP providers and learners, as well as desk-based research on the policy context and international models.
SOLAS, in consultation with officials in my Department, has established a working group to consider the key findings and plan follow-up actions. The group met for a second time earlier this week, and stakeholder engagement is currently being planned as part of this process.
