asked the Minister for Education if he intends to clarify the role of Regional Technical Colleges in the matter of apprenticeship and technician training and education; and if he will make a statement on the matter in view of the development of apprenticeship training announced recently.
Written Answers. - Apprenticeship Training.
46.
In so far as apprenticeship training and education is concerned, the position is that it is anticipated that suitable arrangements will be made in conjunction with AnCO for the phased introduction of a scheme of apprenticeship on the basis of the Department of Education having responsibility for the educational content and of AnCO being responsible for the training content of the programme during the first year of the apprentice course. The role of the regional technical college would be in relation to the educational content of the course during the first and subsequent years.
The courses envisaged in the area of technician training are of two years duration leading to technician qualification and of three years duration leading to higher technician qualification. These courses have been established on a widespread basis in the regional technical colleges and the awards of national certificate and higher diploma respectively are issued by the National Council of Educational Awards to successful candidates in respect of them. There is no change contemplated in relation to these arrangements.