Leader of the Independent Team of Ministers and Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rails and Ports, Seán Canney TD, has welcomed the Government’s decision to place the PATH 1 and PATH 3 programmes on a permanent funding basis, providing long-term support for widening access to higher education across Ireland. He also welcomed the announcement of an additional €2.8 million in funding for the continued rollout of PATH 4, which supports students with intellectual disabilities and the development of inclusive practices across third-level institutions.
Minister Canney said the announcement is a major step forward in delivering equity in education and represents a strong commitment to inclusion — particularly for further education institutions in the West of Ireland.
“The confirmation that PATH 1 and 3 are now moving from pilot projects to fully funded, permanent programmes is a hugely welcome development,” Minister Canney said. “These initiatives have opened doors for students from disadvantaged and under-represented backgrounds, and it is right that this work now receives long-term Government backing.”
PATH 1 supports increased access to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) for students from priority groups including lone parents, Travellers and people with disabilities, while PATH 3 funds regional and community partnerships that promote participation in higher education. Since 2017, PATH 1 has received €6.3 million in funding and will now receive €900,000 annually. PATH 3 will continue with a €2.5 million annual allocation.
Minister Canney highlighted the key role played by West of Ireland institutions, including University of Galway, St Angela’s College and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), which are actively delivering programmes under PATH 1 and 3 as part of the West/North-West regional cluster.
“This announcement gives certainty to colleges like ATU and University of Galway, who are already doing excellent work with schools and community groups across Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal,” Minister Canney said. “It ensures that access to higher education is not just a policy aspiration but a lasting reality for learners in our region.”
Minister Canney also welcomed the expansion of PATH 4, which is focused on supporting students with intellectual disabilities and enhancing inclusion through Universal Design for Learning (UDL). PATH 4 is delivering significant progress, with over 170 students now enrolled across 11 institutions.
ATU is currently offering three PATH 4 certificate programmes across its Sligo, Donegal and Mayo campuses, while University of Galway is delivering a Certificate in Foundational Learning and Community. The €2.8 million in new funding will support inclusive teaching practices, sensory-friendly campus infrastructure, and anti-racism and community engagement initiatives.
Minister Canney added: “I am particularly proud to see institutions in the West at the forefront of PATH 4 delivery. This programme is giving students with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to thrive in a third-level environment — and to be seen, supported and valued.”
The Department also confirmed that the percentage of new entrants to higher education with a disability has increased from 12.4% in 2022 to 14.7% this academic year, showing tangible progress under the National Access Plan 2022–2028.
“These developments reflect a real commitment to inclusive education,” Minister Canney concluded. “It’s about ensuring that no matter where you live or what your background is, you have a pathway into higher education — and the support to succeed.”
ENDS
