Further Education and Training Programmes

Thursday, 24 October 2019

Questions (92)

Micheál Martin

Question:

92. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the number of healthcare assistants being trained is being increased through FETAC and-or SOLAS training programmes in view of the shortage of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43866/19]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

Further education and training programmes are primarily delivered or contracted by the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs). ETBs are funded to deliver these programmes by SOLAS, who also provide overall strategic direaction for the sector.

In 2017, there were 3,764 individuals began courses that led to a Level 5 QQI Major award in Healthcare Support (ISCED code 900). In 2018, 4,202 individuals began such courses.

In addition, there is a new national Healthcare Assistant apprenticeship programme in development at Level 6 that is scheduled to begin in 2020.