Chambers Ireland welcomes funding for English language training to support workforce participation and integration

1 October 2026

Chambers Ireland has welcomed the announcement today by Minister of State Colm Brophy of up to €2 million in funding to support English language training for third country nationals. The announcement reflects recommendations made by Chambers Ireland in its 2024 report Closing Skill Gaps: Intensive Language Training which called for greater investment in intensive language training as a means of addressing skills shortages, supporting integration and helping more people participate in the workforce.

Speaking after the announcement was made, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, Ian Talbot, said:

“Minister Brophy’s announcement recognises the vital role language skills play in helping people access employment and build independent lives in Ireland.Chambers Ireland supports the evidence that intensive language training is one of the most effective interventions available to support labour market participation, while helping businesses address persistent skills shortages.

This funding is an important step. We now need to ensure programmes are delivered at sufficient scale and intensity, with a strong focus on progression into employment and on helping participants fully utilise their existing skills and qualifications.”

ENDS

Find a link to Chambers Ireland’s Closing Skills Gaps: Intensive Language Training Report.