asked the Minister for Labour if he is satisfied that the number of apprentices allowed to each technician is the most suited to the needs of this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Apprentice Numbers.
9.
The intake of apprentices has declined in recent years. There are grounds for believing that the intake may not be adequate to meet the future requirements of the country's industrial expansion programme for skilled craftsmen. Consideration is being given at present to measures that will improve intake so that future needs for skilled workers will be provided for.
Will the Minister state if this situation applies to all trades? Are there trades where people are willing to enter into apprenticeship but are not accepted?
There is a shortage at present. Surveys carried out by the National Manpower Service indicate that there is a shortage of up to 1,000 in the skilled trades, mainly the engineering trades.
Has the Minister drafted any new policy in relation to the apprenticeship scheme following the recent report by the Manpower Service?
A decision has not been taken on that report as yet. As the Deputy is aware, there are difficulties regarding agreement being reached between employers and unions on how exactly a national system, laying down a national quota for particular sectors of employment, is to be devised. This problem still remains with us and, until we get the agreement of both employers and unions, it is difficult to see such a national scheme being adopted.
Are there negotiations in progress?
Yes, consideration is constantly being given to the matter.