asked the Minister for Labour the rates of pay for 1st, 2nd and 3rd year apprentices at AnCO centres; the differences between the rates of pay for the different categories of apprentices in the crafts sector; the allowances paid to students that commute to and from AnCO centres; the allowances payable to students who are in AnCO sponsored accommodation; when the last increase in apprentices allowances was paid; if his Department has any plans to increase the current allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - AnCO Apprentice Pay Rates.
350.
The current weekly rate of pay for apprentices (and allowances in the case of redundant apprentices) at AnCO centres is set out in the table below:
|
Catagory |
Rates for each year |
||
|
First Year |
Second Year |
Third Year |
|
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
|
|
First Year off the job Apprentices |
|||
|
Crafts other than Motor Mechanic |
39.50 |
— |
— |
|
Motor Mechanic |
41.00 |
— |
— |
|
Redundant Apprentices |
|||
|
Crafts other than Motor Mechanic |
36.00 |
49.00 |
66.00 |
|
Motor Mechanic |
37.50 |
51.00 |
69.00 |
The rates for first year off the job apprentices are subject to income tax and PRSI. The rates for redundant apprentices are based on wages rates within the industry and are computed so that they are equivalent to the take home pay of an apprentice in industry after deduction of income tax and PRSI. Apprenticeship rates of pay for the different categories of apprentices are negotiated between employers and trade unions. Apprentices are normally paid a percentage of the skilled craftsman's rate. These percentage rates range from 30 per cent in the first year to 80 per cent in the fourth year of apprenticeship depending on the trade category.
The following are the current travel allowances payable to AnCO trainees who commute to and from AnCO training centres:
|
Miles to Training Centre |
Allowance for 10 journeys |
|
0–3 |
Nil |
|
3–5 |
£2.50 |
|
5–10 |
£6.50 |
|
10–20 |
£9.60 |
|
20–30 |
£11.80 |
|
30–40 |
£15.20 |
|
40–50 |
£17.80 |
These rates were last increased on 29 August 1983.
Where AnCO arrange accommodation for trainees or apprentices AnCO pay the cost of the accommodation directly. The present amount is £34.00 weekly. A contribution is made by the trainee. The contribution by single trainees without dependants is £7.00 per week while the contribution from those with dependants is £5.00.
The method of calculating apprentices pay or allowances is set out above. Accordingly, increases in pay and allowances will depend on movements in the rate for craftsmen.