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Apprenticeship Programmes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 June 2021

Tuesday, 22 June 2021

Questions (470)

Pauline Tully

Question:

470. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science when phase 2, 4 and 6 off-the-job apprentice training will resume at full capacity in view of the fact that it is expected that third-level classes will resume on campus from September 2021 and second-level schooling has already resumed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33207/21]

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Written answers

Craft apprenticeships account for 25 of the 60 existing available apprenticeship programmes. It is these 25 programmes which are delivered in phases of on-the-job and off-the-job training in Training Centres or Institutes of Technology and Technological Universities (depending on phase).  These programmes were those most impacted by the shutdown of on-site learning activity in 2020 and 2021 given the practical nature of the apprenticeships.

Craft apprentices were prioritised for a return to on-site learning on 8 March 2020.  Delivery of off-the-job phases is continuing, albeit with restricted numbers.  The Government has committed €20m funding to increase the level of craft apprenticeship training capacity and work is underway around the country to put additional workshops in place to support increased activity, regardless of spacing requirements. There is will also be provision for on-site presence for some craft apprentices over the summer months. Appropriate protective measures will be in place and numbers on site will be controlled. This approach to returning on-site over the summer period will assist institutions and providers in organising and managing the safe return of larger numbers in the autumn.

A plan for re-opening of tertiary education was published on 15 June 2021.  As part of this plan, a new framework is being developed for a safe return to on-site activity for September 2021.  The framework allows institutions and providers to consistently and safely adapt to ongoing changes to COVID-19 guidance and circumstances.  Planning is proceeding on the basis that full resumption of on-site activity is possible, subject to progress in the rollout of vaccinations and the prevailing public health advice at that time. The return to increased levels of on-site activity for apprentices will take place within public health guidelines.

SOLAS and the HEA are actively working with the education and training providers to identify additional solutions to ensure that craft apprentices are enabled to complete their training as quickly as possible.

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