Minister Lawless rolls up his sleeves at Dublin Bus to highlight €20 million apprenticeship investment
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Ó: An Roinn Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta
- Foilsithe: 4 Nollaig 2025
- An t-eolas is déanaí: 4 Nollaig 2025
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless visited Dublin Bus’ Broadstone Depot to highlight the government’s €20.5 million investment in apprenticeships, and to see first-hand the impact it will have on Ireland’s future workforce.
Rather than simply announcing the funding, Minister Lawless rolled up his sleeves and joined Heavy Vehicle Mechanic apprentices in the depot pits. Wearing mechanic overalls, he helped change a filter, listened to their experiences, and explored ideas on how to inspire more people to choose this hands-on career path.
The investment will fund 99 craft training blocks and eight consortium-led equipment projects, including six additional blocks for Heavy Vehicle Mechanic apprenticeships, a boost welcomed by Dublin Bus, Ireland’s largest public transport provider. After the practical session, the Minister toured the engineering facilities and met with CEO Billy Hann and senior management to discuss how apprenticeships are powering the next generation of public transport professionals.
Talking about his visit, Minister Lawless said:
“Apprenticeships are at the heart of building the skills Ireland needs for the future. Meeting the apprentices here today brings that to life, it’s about real people, real careers, and the confidence that essential services like public transport will have the skilled workforce they depend on. These are the jobs that keep Ireland moving.”
He continued:
“I announced over €20 million to expand apprenticeship provision across higher education. This is on top of the record investment for apprenticeships in Budget 2026, which shows how serious we are about creating opportunities and tackling skills shortages head-on. This funding will deliver new places in areas of critical need, from heavy vehicle mechanics to emerging technologies, ensuring apprenticeships remain a cornerstone of Ireland’s education and training system.”
Currently, Dublin Bus trains 89 apprentices across its facilities, including nine Heavy Vehicle Mechanic apprentices at Broadstone. The Heavy Vehicle Mechanic apprenticeship is a four-year craft programme leading to a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft qualification.
Minister of State with special responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeships, Construction and Climate Skills, Marian Harkin, commented:
“Expanding apprenticeships is not just about jobs—it’s about equipping people with the skills to thrive in a changing economy. From climate-related skills to advanced technical roles, these pathways are vital for Ireland’s future competitiveness and sustainability.”
Billy Hann, CEO of Dublin Bus, said:
“Apprenticeships are vital to the future of Dublin Bus, and our apprentices are the mechanics of tomorrow who will keep our modern fleet moving. Seeing Minister Lawless working alongside our apprentices sends a powerful message about the importance of these careers. Skills and trades will be central to how we continue to deliver for the people who use our services. Today’s announcement is a really positive one that will support that work for years to come.”