Construction programmes for TY students launched in Athlone
The Hodson Bay Hotel Athlone was the venue for the launch of a number of school programmes which are aimed at accelerating the future growth of the Irish construction sector and support of its workers.
During the launch, Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Green Skills, Marian Harkin highlighted three programmes which include The Safe Pass for Schools initiative, the Revised Safe Pass Programme, and a Mental Health Awareness Programme for Safe Pass, CSCS, and QSCS tutors.
The Safe Pass for Schools programme, a partnership between SOLAS, the further education and training authority, the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), is aimed at encouraging second-level students to explore opportunities within the construction sector with an emphasis on safety, as well as the diverse career paths and entry routes available.
There are currently 192,000 people employed in the construction sector with the workforce growing significantly over the last year. There is a projected need for an additional 95,000–110,000 workers by 2030 to meet national housing and infrastructure targets. These programmes aim to ensure that local communities are equipped to contribute to and benefit from this growth.
The Safe Pass for Schools initiative programme was developed as part of SOLAS 'work to enhance the construction training infrastructure and to implement new and comprehensive construction skills pathways. It also links to the Government’s Careers in Construction Action Plan which is designed to support efforts to increase the number of people employed in the construction sector.
The Revised Safe Pass Programme provides an update on the national safety awareness initiative with about 120,000 participants each year. The changes reflect modern construction practices, emerging risks, and improved training methodologies.
The Tutor Mental Health Awareness Programme will equip Safe Pass, CSCS, and QSCS tutors with the skills to recognise mental health challenges among learners and construction workers. Both programmes are being rolled out in 2026.
The Minister of State said the launch of the three school programmes was really significant for the construction sector.
“These programmes will introduce construction education pathways in second level schools in order to help address skills shortages and support students in pursuing rewarding and successful careers.
"It also prioritises mental health and well-being within the construction sector and the revised safe pass programme supports site workers to keep up with the evolution of modern construction methods in a safe and sustainable way," Minister Harkin said.