Serious concerns for Meath apprenticeships as funding cut by almost €14 million 

Serious concerns have been raised about the future of apprenticeships in Co. Meath after it was revealed that the budget for them in Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) has been cut. The concerns were raised by Sinn Féin TD Darren O’Rourke who, along with Sinn Féin colleagues Ruairí Ó Murchú and David Cullinane, raised the issue with the Minister for Further and Higher Education in the Dáil last week.

The Meath East TD said SOLAS, the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training, and the ETBs are facing immense budgetary challenges due to the funding withdrawal. Funding for apprenticeships across all ETBs is cut by over €40 million. Funding for LMETB is cut by almost €14 million. Teachta O’Rourke said;

“These funding cuts will have a huge impact. They will mean courses will be delayed or, possibly, cancelled entirely. That information is not clear yet, but it is very significant. We need answers and, more than that, we need immediate assurances that apprenticeship courses won’t be delayed, interrupted or cancelled. At a time when we are crying out for tradespeople, that would be completely unconscionable.

Responding in the Dáil, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, James Lawless TD, said; “A funding pressure has recently been identified for the 2025 apprenticeship budget. This pressure is primarily linked to the cost of State allowances paid to apprentices during their off-the-job training phases. I assure colleagues that the issue is being taken very seriously and that a pathway forward will be found. SOLAS is currently actively engaged with the ETBs and my Department to identify practical and sustainable solutions. I am taking a very keen interest in the discussions, which are ongoing. I am adamant that a solution must be found.” Concluding, Teachta O’Rourke said;

“I have asked the Minister for the specific details in relation to LMETB, where I am told the funding cut is almost €14 million. I have also asked for a clear roadmap for resolution. A solution must be found here. The money must be found. We need assurances that courses will not be delayed, interrupted or cancelled.”