Vol. 502 No. 5
44 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the rates of pay payable to apprentices; the amount by which they exceed unemployment benefit; and the plans, if any, she has to provide for some increase in these rates under the minimum wage legislation in order that apprentices derive some benefit from the provision. [8636/99]
Wage rates paid to apprentices are agreed between the employers and the relevant trade unions, and I have no function in the matter. The off-the-job training allowances payable by FÁS are calculated on the basis of the rates payable in each individual trade adjusted downwards by the amount of PRSI normally paid by the individual apprentice. I have arranged for FÁS to forward details of the rates for the different trades to the Deputy.
In the above context, and taking account of the fact that the rate of unemployment benefit varies according to the social insurance contribution paid, the difference between apprenticeship wages and unemployment benefit will vary from case to case. One of the areas being considered by the Inter-Departmental Group on Implementation of a National Minimum Wage is the treatment of apprentices. I expect to receive the final report of the group in May. When I have finalised my proposals on the national minimum wage Bill, including the treatment of apprentices, I will bring them to Government for approval.
