Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, plans to spend the significant and growing surplus in the National Training Fund must be considered within the context of the Government’s overall budgetary policy.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 the 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. My officials will collaborate with their colleagues in the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, on options that maybe considered for the future operation of the Fund including legislative changes. My officials are seeking legal advice on the scope of expenditure currently permitted under the Act.