Wexford County Council Launches Ireland’s First Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Programme

Wexford County Council is strengthening its cybersecurity capabilities with the launch of Ireland’s first tailored IT apprenticeship programme for local authorities. The Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Programme, officially launched on October 21, aims to equip local government employees with the necessary skills to protect networks and data from cyber-attacks. Ten local authorities, including Wexford, have joined the initiative, which features a 70:30 split between on-the-job learning and off-the-job training. Minister Marian Harkin and Minister John Cummins launched the programme in Dundalk, alongside representatives from the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology). The apprenticeship, which awards an Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity (NFQ Level 6), will help participants develop expertise in cybersecurity roles within local government. The first cohort of 14 apprentices started their training in June, with plans to expand the programme in the future. Minister Harkin emphasized that the initiative not only opens opportunities for new talent but also upskills existing staff, strengthening cyber resilience within local government. The programme supports key Government priorities, including growing the number of apprenticeships in the public sector. The initiative is part of Ireland’s Local Government Digital and ICT Strategy 2030, and it aims to develop a skilled workforce ready to tackle the challenges of an increasingly digital world. It also aligns with the Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021–2025, contributing to a secure and future-ready public sector NO REPRO FEE 21.10.2025 Pictured at the launch of Ireland’s first cybersecurity apprenticeship for local government, at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk, Co Louth, are Susan Hickey from Kildare Couny Council and Jesper Frisch from Mayo County Council. 14 are participating in the apprenticeship programme in ten local authorities and the Local Government Management Agency, which will equip them with skills and expertise to protect local government networks from cyber-attacks. PHOTO: Mark Stedman