4073. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to ensure that projects (details supplied) are adequately funded. [61987/26]

I am committed to supporting a Further Education and Training (FET) system that helps individuals succeed, boosts economic growth, and prepares our workforce for the challenges and opportunities ahead, while fostering stronger communities. This commitment is reflected in a significant investment in FET in 2026.

I allocate funding to SOLAS to support the delivery of FET programmes and services through the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and other agencies nationwide. In 2026, my Department is allocating over €1.2 billion (excluding capital funding) to SOLAS to support FET provision nationwide.

Each ETB is responsible for planning, prioritising and managing the delivery of FET programmes within its approved funding allocation. This includes determining how resources are distributed across programmes, scheduling provision, and making operational decisions regarding the delivery of services. While my Department provides the overall funding framework for FET and allocates resources to SOLAS, responsibility for the management and delivery of programmes at local level rests with the ETBs. As independent statutory bodies, ETBs are responsible for their own operational and budgetary decisions, and my Department does not have a role in directing or intervening in such matters.

The centre in question is a third-party provider engaged by the ETB to deliver services on its behalf. The ETB is responsible for overseeing and managing these arrangements in accordance with relevant guidance and public financial procedures. Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) has advised my Department that discussions are ongoing with the centre in relation to funding arrangements for 2026. It indicated that it is in the process of clarifying several details with the Centre including receipt of certain information required to complete this process to finalise the associated budget allocation for 2026. This approach is in accordance with section 8.37 of the Code of Practice for the Governance of Education and Training Boards relating to the issuance of Service Level Agreements.

KCETB has advised that funding continues to be provided to support the ongoing delivery of programmes and services at the Centre. KCETB remains in regular engagement with the Centre and its Board of Management and is working to progress arrangements for 2026 at the earliest opportunity. As accountable bodies, and with the Chief Executive serving as Accounting Officer, ETBs must satisfy themselves that appropriate governance, oversight and financial control arrangements are in place before agreeing a funding level. I am sure the Deputy will agree that it is important that these governance requirements are observed and that the centre cooperates fully with the ETB to facilitate this process.

There are currently 31 registered learners participating in programmes delivered by the Centre.