Kildare set to receive €180,000 as new initiative aims to remove barriers to further education, says Minister James Lawless
A new €2 million transport fund aimed at supporting learners with intellectual disabilities is set to benefit students and families across county Kildare.
Kildare North Fianna Fail TD and Higher Education Minister James Lawless announced the funding, which was secured under Budget 2026, to help remove transport barriers for those accessing further education and training.
The initiative increases the overall Fund for Students with Disabilities in the sector from €5.7 million to €7.7 million.
In Kildare, €180,000 has been allocated for 2026. Supports will be delivered locally through the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board and coordinated nationally by SOLAS.
Minister Lawless says the funding will make a “meaningful difference”, adding that access to education should not be limited by practical challenges like transport.
He said he had been contacted by parents who outlined difficulties securing transport funding, which in some cases prevented learners from taking up courses.
The Minister says he worked to secure the additional funding and has issued guidance to Education and Training Boards to ensure it is used effectively.
The Transport Fund is designed to widen access to courses and supports within the further education sector, with the aim of improving participation and outcomes for learners who may otherwise struggle to attend.
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