asked the Minister for Labour if he intends to review the present AnCO training programme with a view to seeking improvements in the programme which will result in trainees becoming skilled rather than semi-skilled; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - AnCO Training Programme.
28.
The types of training provided by AnCO are kept under regular review by that body. Since apprenticeship is the main method accepted by trade unions and employers' organisations for producing skilled workers the scope for training by AnCO of adults to skilled level is limited. However, a pilot scheme for such training for the engineering industry has started in the Cork training centre.
Is the Minister aware that crash training programmes at present being carried out do not render those people fit to take up skilled jobs? They are being sent for skilled jobs for which they are not adequately trained. It is disappointing to those people who are spending their time in training. Would the Minister not look into this in view of the fact that Manpower are not able to place those people who have been trained in semi-skilled work?
This training is not intended to bring them to skilled level. I am not aware of their being sent to jobs requiring fully skilled persons.
They are being sent.
They continue their training on the job as apprentices with the particular firms.
The firms in question are not accepting them because they are only semi-skilled. If the Minister talks to Manpower they will tell him they are having increasing difficulties in having those men placed.
They are not being offered as anything other than semi-skilled people.
If I bring a particular case to the Minister will he look into it?
I will, indeed.