Launch of new construction programmes including initiative for transition year (TY) students aimed at addressing critical skills shortages and attracting new talent.
Minister Harkin launched a number of programmes which will accelerate the future growth of the Irish construction sector and support its workers.
The launch event, which took place in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Westmeath, 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.
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.
Commenting at the launch Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Further Education, Apprenticeship, Construction and Green Skills, Marian Harkin said:
“In my view the launch of these three programmes is really significant for the construction sector, enabling it to 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.”
David Smith, Director of Construction, Quality and Climate Strategy at SOLAS said:
“SOLAS is delighted to launch these programmes which include the Revised Safe Pass Programme. This represents a significant update to Ireland’s national safety awareness training for the construction industry.
“This revised programme has been developed to ensure that safety training reflects modern construction practices. It incorporates insights from training providers, industry experts, regulatory bodies, and educational partners, and is designed to be more engaging and relevant for learners.
“These construction initiatives not only support the development of a skilled future workforce but also address current and projected skills shortages across the industry.”
Also commenting Andrew Brownlee, CEO of CIF said:
“It is vital that we introduce construction careers to second level students as they are making important decisions about their futures. We must continue to promote the clear pathways into apprenticeships, trades, and professional roles. This will ensure that we can build a future talent pipeline that is aligned with our national workforce needs, as well as meeting key national targets in relation to housing and infrastructure.”
