4105. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the total number of apprenticeship options which will be available for enrolment in the coming academic year; and the level of respective enrolment in each of these options for the most recent period for which data is available. [63888/26]

As Minister, I have prioritised investment in apprenticeship delivery. Funding for apprenticeships has more than doubled since the establishment of my Department in 2020, reaching €415 million in 2026.

There are currently 88 options for apprenticeship programmes available across a wide range of sectors from construction to hospitality, with additional programmes in development. Ten new apprenticeship programmes have been launched in 2026, including Robotics and Automation, Software Testing Associate, Business and Operations, Social Care and Paramedicine.

At the end of 2025, there were 9,461 apprenticeship enrolments (or registrations), while a further 4,324 enrolments were recorded year to date, up to the end of July 2026. There is a Government commitment to continue growing the level of enrolments or registrations towards a target of 12,500 annual apprenticeship registrations by 2030. The registration figures for 2025 and 2026 (to end July) are attached in tabular form.

It remains my priority to continue growing and strengthening the apprenticeship system. The forthcoming Apprenticeship and Traineeship Strategy 2026-2030 will set out further measures to expand apprenticeship opportunities, respond to evolving skills needs and support economic growth. A particular focus will be placed on increasing participation in craft and construction-related apprenticeships, which are critical to meeting Ireland's future workforce needs.

Registration 2025 .