Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 July 2021
100. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will provide a list of all members of the National Training Advisory Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36718/21]
View answerThe National Training Fund (NTF) was established by the National Training Fund Act, 2000, as a dedicated fund to support the training of those in employment, and those seeking employment. The Act also provides for the funding of research to provide information on existing and likely future skills requirements of the economy.
A comprehensive review of the NTF was commissioned by the Department of Education and Skills as part of a package of reforms announced to accompany the decision in Budget 2018 to raise the NTF levy. This followed a consultation process with key stakeholders, during which issues were raised regarding the transparency of the use of the Fund, the alignment of expenditure for employer needs and the role of employers in informing expenditure priorities. The independent review, which was undertaken by Indecon, examined the existing operation of the NTF and provided recommendations to inform its future direction.
The NTF Advisory Group was formed following the recommendations from Indecon, which recognised that engagement with employers is key to ensuring provision is aligned with developing skills needs. This advisory group is a permanent resourced structure to optimise enterprise engagement on NTF priorities.
Liam Ryan was appointed as independent Chairperson of the Advisory Group by the Minister for Education in November 2018. Liam is the Managing Director, SAP Labs Ireland. Mr Ryan's appointment was based on his role as a major employer, membership of National Skills Council, and Chairperson of Fast Track to IT. (FIT). The group consists of key stakeholders from the following employer representatives, agencies and Government Departments:
- ISME
- IBEC
- Chambers Ireland
- Construction Industry Federation
- Irish Exporters Association
- Irish Hotels Federation
- American Chamber Of Commerce Ireland
- SOLAS
- Skillnet Ireland
- The Wheel
- Higher Education Authority
- Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation
- Department of Social Protection
- Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
