asked the Minister for Education if she recently sanctioned a trip to Australia for a delegation including the chief executive officer of a vocational education committee; if so, the duration and the purpose of the visit; the cost to the Exchequer; and the educational grounds on which this trip was sanctioned.
Written Answers. - Visit to Australia.
163.
A team from Ireland including the chairman of one VEC but no chief executive officer attended the 29th International Youth Skill Olympics which were held in Sydney, Australia from 13-25 February 1988. Sponsorship was received from private industry and the total cost to the Exchequer is estimated at about £28,000.
Ireland has participated since 1956 in the Skill Olympics formerly known as the international apprentice competitions which enable our best apprentices to display their crafts and skills in international competition. Our apprentices were particularly successful winning two gold medals, one silver, one bronze and ten certificates of merit. I believe that such international competition not only helps to raise the level of skills among our apprentices generally but also serves to enhance the image of Ireland as a country with a skilled industrial workforce.