Minister visits LWETB further education campus in Garrycastle

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Marian Harkin visited LWETB’s College of Further Education and Training, Garrycastle Campus to see first-hand the wide range of apprenticeships and Further Education and Training (FET) programmes.

Speaking at the event, Minister Harkin stated: “I appreciate LWETB’s strong focus on upskilling and reskilling that is responsive to industry needs—particularly in key growth areas like digital and engineering. These efforts are creating new and meaningful opportunities for learners and the future workforce.”

Siobhán Lynch, Chief Executive of LWETB, said: This visit highlights the critical role FET plays in equipping people with the skills they need to succeed, while also supporting the needs of employers and communities.

LWETB’s Director of FET Antonine Healy emphasised the strong alignment between provision and labour market needs: “The Garrycastle Campus is central to our mission to provide and deliver high-quality education and training opportunities.

“From apprenticeships to upskilling programmes, we respond directly to labour market needs. LWETB facilitates both education and career progression for learners, while also supporting enterprise growth.”

During the event, Minister Harkin met with staff and learners, toured the campus facilities, and engaged in discussions around FET programme offerings in Longford and Westmeath, capital development plans, curriculum innovation, and inclusive learner supports.