Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 January 2014
238. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which it might be found possible to facilitate a substantial increase in the availability in apprenticeships, with particular reference to ensuring that there is an adequate supply of skilled personnel available to meet economic needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4242/14]
View answerIn order to provide a modern and flexible Irish Apprenticeship System, reflective of the relevant skills requirements of both industry and potential apprentices, I established an independent group to carry out a comprehensive review of the Apprenticeship System in Ireland last year. Following consultation with relevant stakeholders, the Review Group prepared a comprehensive report and made a number of recommendations with regard to the existing apprenticeship system as well as a framework for a future expanded programme of apprenticeship. This report was received in December and I have considered its contents and have published it on my Department's website, www.education.ie. My Department will now work with stakeholder on implementation arrangements for the report's recommendations.
