Vol. 486 No. 1
926 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the severe skill shortage being faced by businesses who have set up call centres in Ireland; and the plans, if any, he has to improve the level of language training in schools and colleges to meet these skill shortages. [2018/98]
I am aware that employment in the Teleservices industry is expected to grow from 4,000 to 10,000 in the next three years in Ireland.
As part of the Government action plan on skills I have approved the provision of 690 places in 20 selected centres under which a two year NCVA certified PLC course is being provided as part of the national response to emerging skill needs of the industry. This has been accompanied by an investment of £1.5 million in the selected centres to enable them to provide a quality programme consistent with industry needs.
As the new initiative involves extensive placement abroad in order to achieve the required level of immersion in continental language and culture, a new student support scheme has been introduced towards the cost of the overseas placement. This is an exciting and innovative development which has been warmly applauded by industry and the development agencies. Both industry and providers were closely involved in the design and development of the programme.
In addition, the new Education Technology Investment Fund, under which £250 million will be provided in the next three years for technology investment at all levels of education in partnership with industry, includes specific provision for the PLC programme. Some £20 million will be available for PLCs and apprenticeships. This will enable the Teleservices initiative to be expanded further in the coming years.
The actions in this area are complemented by training for the sector provided by FÁS.
