Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
363. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Skills if SOLAS payments for apprentices have moved to fortnightly rather than weekly for all apprentices or only for on-site apprentices; if so, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6769/20]
View answerCraft apprentices undertaking off-the-job training moved from a weekly to a fortnightly pay period in March of this year.
Craft apprentices who are on a period of off-the-job training are paid from a shared services payroll which is provided by the Education Shared Business Services (ESBS). This replaced the end of life apprentice payment systems within the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs). Given that apprentice training allowances are taxable, the ESBS payroll also allows the Department of Education and Skills to return the relevant payment information (Income Tax, USC and PRSI) to Revenue.
Craft apprentices who are undertaking their on-the-job training will continue to be paid under the arrangements agreed with their employer. In the case of the new consortia led apprenticeships, apprentices are paid by their employer for the duration of the apprenticeship so there is no change in their arrangements.
