Cork Chamber echoes call for introduction of multi-annual funding for higher education sector 

Cork Chamber has echoed calls for the introduction of structured, multi-annual funding for the higher education sector.

It comes as the chairman of UCC’s governing authority, Sean O’Driscoll, raised the matter when writing in a personal capacity in the Irish Examiner this week.

Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy, said Cork Chamber has raised issues regarding the funding difficulties faced by universities and third-level institutions in its pre-budget submission.

“Cork Chamber has raised the issues regarding the funding difficulties faced by universities and third-level institutions through our pre-budget submission 2025 and as recently as last week with Finance Minister Jack Chambers TD, but the situation outlined by Mr O’Driscoll gives rise to even further concern,” he said.

“Education has been a game-changer for Ireland in recent decades, enhancing the skills of the workforce, attracting investment into Ireland, and growing Ireland’s prosperity.

“Talent is one of Ireland’s key pillars in attracting and retaining FDI, and is crucial to the success of indigenous firms.

“Ireland’s critical infrastructure, education included, must be properly supported by multi-annual funding structures that facilitate long-term planning and strategic thinking.

“Higher education is suffering from a well-publicised funding gap of €307m at present, which hampers the ability of third-level institutions to expand and plan for the future.”

Mr Healy said the National Training Fund (NTF) surplus “could and should” be deployed to support multi-annual funding plans and strategies for further education.

“Ireland’s competitiveness hinges on its ability to ensure the provision of a highly-skilled and talented workforce,” he said. “Unlocking the surplus in the NTF and providing greater certainty for higher education through multi-annual funding plans will play a critical role in driving Ireland’s future competitiveness.”