Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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359. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the plans for the allocation of the €810 million in capital funding announced in Budget 2026; if investment is planned for the development of innovation and incubation hubs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55628/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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As I stated in the House last week, during the discussions earlier this year on the National Development Plan, I secured an allocation amounting to some €4.55bn over the coming five year period. I also noted that I intend to allocate €2.3bn of this to funding for Ireland’s research system.

In 2026, my Department will have a total capital allocation of €810m. I intend to direct over €425m of this to the Research area. This funding will enable continued support for the programmes delivered by Research Ireland, including new items such as the Global Talent Initiative. It will also support the next generation of Research Centres, which are currently being assessed through a rigorous process of peer review. I also intend to direct the commencement of a new programme of investment in Research infrastructure and equipment for the sector, with officials of my Department advancing planning in this regard on an urgent basis.

In addition, I will also oversee the continuation of a significant level of investment in Higher Education and in Further Education and Training. In 2026, significant capital funding will be provided for the development and enhancement of higher education and Further Education and Training infrastructure. This investment will deliver new and upgraded facilities, modernised campuses and additional capacity to meet growing regional and national demand. This capital investment will focus on key programmes in the following Higher and Further Education programmes; Higher Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund, Infrastructure Upgrade and Refurbishment Fund, Apprenticeships, Public Private Partnership Programmes, Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund, Energy Efficiency Decarbonisation Pathfinder Programme, Strategic Infrastructure Upgrade Fund, Devolved Grant, Student Accommodation, Emergency Health & Safety Works and the Colleges of the Future Programme.

It will also support continued investment in healthcare and veterinary education, with funding approved for the expansion of medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, nursing and veterinary education. Officials in my Department are advancing this work in collaboration with the HEA, SOLAS and with the institutions.