Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has welcomed the significant success of the Government’s current Action Plan for Apprenticeship, highlighting the substantial growth in apprentice numbers, investment, and programme expansion in recent years.
Deputy O’Shea raised the matter directly with the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, seeking an update on the forthcoming national Action Plan for Apprenticeships, which is currently being developed and is due for publication in 2026.
Welcoming the Minister’s reply, Deputy O’Shea said “The progress delivered under the current Action Plan for Apprenticeships is extremely encouraging. In 2025 alone, 9,461 people registered as apprentices — representing a 77% increase compared to 2020. That is a remarkable achievement and reflects the growing recognition of apprenticeships as a high-quality and rewarding career pathway.”
The overall apprentice population has increased from 19,630 in 2020 to 31,165 in 2025, demonstrating sustained growth and strong demand across sectors of the economy. Deputy O’Shea also highlighted the significant financial commitment underpinning this expansion, noting the central role of the National Training Fund in supporting apprenticeship delivery.
“In Budget 2026, an additional €79 million was allocated for apprenticeship delivery, bringing total investment to over €410 million — more than double the 2020 level. This sustained investment ensures we can continue to meet Ireland’s growing skills needs across construction, technology, manufacturing, healthcare and many other sectors,” he said.
The range of apprenticeship programmes has also expanded dramatically, with 78 programmes now available — almost three times the number available a decade ago.
“This diversification is reshaping public perceptions of apprenticeships. They are no longer seen solely as traditional craft routes but as modern, flexible pathways into professions that previously required more conventional academic routes,” Deputy O’Shea added.
Looking ahead, Deputy O’Shea welcomed confirmation that a new Action Plan for Apprenticeship will be published in 2026. “The forthcoming plan represents a vital opportunity to ensure our apprenticeship system continues to evolve as a high-quality, flexible and inclusive pathway to skills and employment. It will focus on aligning training with Ireland’s skills needs, investing strategically to deliver on Government priorities, and strengthening the quality and relevance of apprenticeship programmes.”
Deputy O’Shea also noted the Minister’s intention to reform the apprenticeship delivery model by transferring responsibility for craft apprenticeship curriculum development, assessment and awarding from SOLAS and QQI to education providers. “This reform will create a more joined-up and responsive system. Those delivering programmes on the ground are best placed to ensure curricula remain up to date, robust and aligned with industry needs. It is a significant step towards developing a single, coherent apprenticeship model that brings together craft and consortia routes in a more streamlined way.”
Concluding, Deputy O’Shea said “Apprenticeships are central to addressing Ireland’s skills shortages and supporting regional economic growth. The success of the current Action Plan shows what can be achieved with sustained focus and investment, and I look forward to the publication of the new plan in 2026 to build on this strong foundation.”
Credit: Getty Images
