Skip to main content
Normal View

Action Plan for Jobs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 January 2014

Tuesday, 28 January 2014

Questions (343, 346)

Dara Calleary

Question:

343. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if there was an improved availability of skills required for the manufacturing sector in the Irish labour force during 2013; if he has engaged with the Department of Education and Skills to improve foreign language skills; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4191/14]

View answer

Dara Calleary

Question:

346. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the net number of jobs that were created in the manufacturing sector during 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4197/14]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 343 and 346 together.

I initiated an analysis of the skills requirements for the manufacturing sector in 2012, and this was published in April last. This report, by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs/Forfas was developed in tandem with a wider Strategy for the Manufacturing sector up to 2020, launched at the same time.

In relation to skills, a wide range of recommendations on many aspects of skills enhancement were made in that skills report. This included the development of foreign language skills, particularly European language skills. The recommendations are being advanced in conjunction with the Department of Education and Skills and the relevant educational bodies. Key Actions were incorporated into the Action Plan for Jobs 2013 and good progress has already been made in initiating various measures.

In relation to employment in the manufacturing sector, full year statistics for 2013 are not yet available but the latest Central Statistics data shows, that in the 12 months up to end-September 2013, an additional 7,900 workers were employed in that sector, bringing the total to 213,600. When account is taken of indirect jobs, the sector therefore now supports over 427,000 employees.

Top
Share