MINISTER MARIAN HARKIN VISITS TU DUBLIN TO PROMOTE APPRENTICESHIPS AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
TU Dublin welcomed Minister of State for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills, Marian Harkin TD, to its Bolton Street campus, highlighting the university’s leadership in apprenticeship education and skills development in Ireland.
The visit marks a significant milestone following TU Dublin’s €5.73 million allocation under the Apprenticeship Expansion Programme 2025, part of a wider €20.5 million government investment to increase apprenticeship capacity nationwide.
Major Investment Boosts Apprenticeship Training Capacity in Ireland
The funding will enable TU Dublin to deliver 600 new apprenticeship training places, strengthening its position as one of the leading providers of apprenticeship education in Ireland.
Key developments include:
- Expansion of training facilities across Bolton Street, Tallaght and Blanchardstown campuses
- Delivery of 39 additional craft training blocks
- Investment in modern equipment and upgraded workshops
This expansion supports Ireland’s growing demand for skilled workers across construction, engineering, and technical sectors.
Growth in Electrical, Plumbing and Carpentry Apprenticeships
TU Dublin is significantly increasing capacity in key trade areas, including:
- Carpentry and Joinery training to meet regional demand
- A 42% increase in Electrical apprenticeship capacity by 2028
- A 75% increase in Plumbing apprenticeships at the Blanchardstown campus
Additional investment will modernise Motor Mechanics facilities with advanced diagnostic equipment and expand training in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning to support climate and infrastructure needs.
Expansion of Apprenticeship Programmes Across Key Sectors
TU Dublin continues to lead in the development of consortia-led apprenticeship programmes in sectors such as:
- Logistics
- Laboratory Sciences
- Telecommunications
- Industrial Electrical Engineering
New apprenticeship programmes in BioPharma and Geospatial Science have also been approved and are set to launch in the coming academic years.
Minister Highlights Importance of Apprenticeship Access and Skills
Speaking during the visit, Minister Marian Harkin TD said:
“I was pleased to visit TU Dublin’s Bolton Street campus and see apprentices gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of programmes. It was especially encouraging to meet participants on the Access to Apprenticeship programme, which plays an important role in widening access to education and skills development.”
TU Dublin Reinforces Leadership in Apprenticeship Education
TU Dublin President Dr Deirdre Lillis welcomed the investment, stating:
“This funding recognises TU Dublin’s leadership in apprenticeship education. Expanding our capacity and upgrading facilities will ensure apprentices gain the industry-ready skills needed in a rapidly evolving economy, while supporting national skills development and economic growth.”
Access to Apprenticeship Programme Supporting Young People
A key focus of the visit was TU Dublin’s Access to Apprenticeship (ATA) programme, which supports young people aged 16 to 24 from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Delivered at the Bolton Street campus, the 15-week programme provides:
- Hands-on training across construction, engineering, electrical and motor sectors
- Work placements and industry site visits
- CV preparation and interview skills training
- Certifications including Safe Pass, Manual Handling and Working at Heights
The programme also offers opportunities to engage with Erasmus+ students and gain valuable international exposure.
Funded by the Higher Education Authority, the initiative plays a vital role in improving access to apprenticeship pathways and promoting inclusive education in Ireland.
Applications Open for September 2026 Intake
Applications for the next Access to Apprenticeship intake, beginning in September 2026, are now open.
For more information, visit the TU Dublin website.
Media Contact
Lisa Saputo
Senior Manager – University Communications & Public Affairs
Phone: 086 701 5268
Email: lisa.saputo@tudublin.ie
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Michael McDonnell Managing Editor of Irish Construction Industry Magazine & Plan Magazine