The devolved capital grant will give the 16 ETBs across Ireland the discretion to make decisions around small-scale further education and training (FET) investment priorities at a local level.

The funding can be used for small-scale works including necessary infrastructure and improvement works, and for the purchase of equipment.

Funding is provided under Project 2040 and forms part of the ongoing investment in the FET sector.

Using this grant, ETBs will be able to carry out work such as upgrades to computer labs and science labs, replacement of apprenticeship equipment, roof works and planned improvement works of FET buildings.

Announcing the funding, Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris, said the funding was “an essential part of the overall funding framework to support ETBs in the delivery of FET.

“Crucially, the fund is at the discretion of the ETB meaning it can address its priorities at a local level for delivery.”

Funds will be distributed to each ETB by SOLAS.