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 Government approval of a €20.5 million investment to expand apprenticeship capacity across higher education, with significant benefits for Atlantic Technological University (ATU).

The programme will deliver 1,600 additional apprenticeship places, supported by €15 million in 2025 and €5.5 million in 2026. It includes 99 new apprenticeship training blocks per year in high-demand trades such as Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry & Joinery, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics, Mechanical Automation & Maintenance Fitting, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, and Wood Manufacturing and Finishing.

Minister Canney noted the strong regional impact, with ATU receiving 6 additional training blocks annually. As a former GMIT (now ATU) lecturer, he said he is particularly pleased to see this investment directed to the West and North-West.

Minister Canney said: “I am very pleased to see this investment strengthening ATU’s apprenticeship offering. Six new training blocks each year will allow more apprentices to train locally in areas where demand for skilled workers is exceptionally strong.”

He added: “This €20.5 million programme is a major commitment to expanding apprenticeship pathways and ensuring our technological universities can meet future skills needs. ATU is central to this ambition, and this investment will deliver real benefits for apprentices and employers across Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal.”