Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Further and Higher Education that Cork North West continues to benefit from a broad range of Further Education and Training (FET), apprenticeship and skills development opportunities, while also highlighting the importance of continued investment to meet the region’s future workforce needs.
Following Parliamentary Questions submitted by Deputy O’Shea, the Minister confirmed that Cork ETB will receive more than €102 million in funding for 2026, an increase of over €6 million on last year, supporting further education, apprenticeships, Youthreach services and skills development across County Cork.
Deputy O’Shea said the response demonstrates the significant range of opportunities already available locally.
“It is very encouraging to see the breadth of Further Education and Training opportunities that are available for people across Cork North West. Whether someone is leaving school, looking to retrain, returning to education or seeking to upskill while in employment, there are excellent pathways available through Cork ETB.”
“The Mallow and Charleville campuses continue to provide almost 350 PLC places across a wide range of disciplines including Early Learning and Care, Healthcare, Nursing, Animal Care and Pre-Paramedic Studies, while apprenticeship training in Carpentry and Joinery and Hairdressing is also available in Mallow. These are practical courses that equip people with the skills needed for rewarding careers and provide employers with the skilled workforce they require.”
Deputy O’Shea also welcomed the continued provision of Youthreach services in both Mallow and Macroom.
“Youthreach provides an invaluable second chance for young people who have left mainstream education. The availability of places in both Mallow and Macroom ensures young people across our communities have the opportunity to develop their skills, gain qualifications and progress into employment or further education.”
The Cork North West TD also welcomed confirmation that plans continue to progress for a new Further Education facility in Mallow under the Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Fund.
“The proposed redevelopment of the Mallow College of Further Education campus represents an important long-term investment for North Cork. Modern facilities will help ensure learners have access to high-quality education and training for many years to come, and I will continue engaging with the Minister and Cork ETB to support the project’s delivery.”
Deputy O’Shea said it was particularly positive to receive confirmation that Cork ETB continues to work closely with employers to address skills shortages in key sectors.
“Our region has strong employment opportunities across construction, healthcare, manufacturing, agri-food and the growing renewable energy sector. It is vital that education and training provision continues to evolve alongside these industries.”
“I particularly welcome the work being undertaken through the South West Regional Skills Forum, Cork ETB’s partnerships with local employers, the expansion of retrofit training and the development of the National Offshore Wind Training Hub, in which Cork ETB will play a leading role. These initiatives will help ensure that people living in Cork North West can access the skills required for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”
Deputy O’Shea concluded by reaffirming his commitment to supporting further investment in education and training across the constituency.
“Further Education and Training plays a crucial role in strengthening our local economy, supporting businesses, creating employment opportunities and helping people achieve their full potential. I will continue working to ensure Cork North West receives the investment needed to build on the excellent services already available and to meet the future skills needs of our communities.”
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