Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed strong growth in Ireland’s apprenticeship system, with new figures showing a marked rise in registrations and participation.

Annual apprenticeship registrations reached 9,461 in 2025 – up 78% since 2020 – with the system now building towards the Government’s target of 12,500 new apprentices each year by 2030.

There are now 80 apprenticeship programmes in place, with over 31,000 apprentices in training – a 59% increase since 2020.

Construction and construction-related apprenticeships account for 6,428 registrations in 2025 – up 69% since 2020 – with over 22,800 apprentices currently in training in the sector.

Welcoming the figures, Minister Canney said: “These are strong numbers and they show real momentum in the system.

“A 78% increase in registrations is significant, and it shows we’re moving in the right direction towards that 12,500 target.”

Minister Canney said the focus now is on maintaining that progress: “We need to keep building on this – making it easier for employers to take on apprentices and giving people clear, practical pathways into good careers.

“That’s how we deliver the skilled workforce needed for housing, infrastructure and economic growth.”

Work is ongoing on the next Action Plan for Apprenticeship (2026–2030), which will focus on improving quality, expanding pathways and strengthening links with industry.

Minister Canney added: “The progress is strong and we need to continue to build on it. Apprenticeships will play a central role in delivering what the country needs.”