Vol. 568 No. 1
737 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government the number of apprentices appointed to stonemasonry by his Department; if any of the applicants did not accept their apprenticeship; if there is a substitute list; if so, when further apprenticeships will be offered by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15718/03]
This year my Department will have a total of 24 apprentice stonemasons in training, with nine having been recruited in 2003. This year two offers of stonemason apprenticeships were declined, but, in both instances, offers are being made to reserve panellists.
738 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government the procedure a person has to follow to obtain an apprenticeship in stonemasonry; when a new listing will be put in place in regard to placements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15719/03]
My Department has just completed its 2003 apprenticeship recruitment programme for all areas. A further recruitment programme is not anticipated until next year. However, any person interested in seeking an apprenticeship can obtain an application form from my Department. Completed applications are duly recorded and details of forthcoming competitions are then notified to applicants.
