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 confirmation that Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (ETB) will receive €149,953 in new funding under the Reach Fund 2025.

The allocation is part of a €4.5 million national package announced today by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, and Minister of State for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Climate Skills, Marian Harkin TD. In total, more than 700 community education projects nationwide will benefit, supporting over 100,000 learners.

Minister Canney said: “I warmly welcome this allocation of almost €150,000 for Galway and Roscommon ETB. The Reach Fund is a vital resource for community education, ensuring that learners who face the greatest barriers – whether through disability, unemployment, migration, or social disadvantage – can access high-quality learning opportunities.

Galway and Roscommon ETB has an outstanding track record in providing community-based education across our towns, villages and rural areas. This funding will allow them to expand and strengthen their work, giving people the chance to develop new skills, build confidence and progress to further education, training or employment.”

The Reach Fund, established in 2020, is administered by SOLAS through the 16 ETBs. Key target groups for Reach funding include the long-term unemployed; learners under 25 years of age; people with disabilities; and migrants and refugees. Other priority groups include lone parents; members of the Traveller and Roma communities; early school leavers; and people impacted by homelessness.

Minister Canney concluded: “This investment recognises the power of community education to transform lives. It offers new opportunities, accessible supports, and a pathway into lifelong learning.”