Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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While there is a significant and growing surplus in the National Training Fund (NTF), plans to spend the NTF surplus must be considered within the context of budgetary policy and EU fiscal rules. Any increase in NTF expenditure, all other things being equal and without a corresponding reduction on the Vote, requires an increase in my Department’s and overall Government expenditure ceilings.

In his Budget speech, Minister Donohoe noted the NTF surplus and committed to examining how the funding needs of further and higher education can be met. I fully support the key role the NTF surplus can play in future proofing the skills needs of the labour market and ensuring that workers can upskill and reskill, accessing lifelong learning opportunities. I have written to Minister Donohoe regarding the next steps to identify options, including legislative changes, for the future operation of the Fund.

The NTF is providing funding of some €258 million this year to support the apprenticeship system. As part of Budget 2024, an additional €67 million investment will help to grow the apprenticeship system, and in particular will allow craft apprenticeship to move from providing 13,000 places in 2022 to over 16,000 places in 2024, and reduce the length of time an apprentice waits for training.