Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
845. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the current progress on plans for a barbering apprenticeship scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42637/21]
View answerApprenticeship is a demand driven educational and training programme which aims to develop the skills of an apprentice in order to meet the needs of industry and the labour market.
The development of a new apprenticeship is employer-led, with consortia comprising employer groups and educational providers coming together to identify a skills need and appropriate apprenticeship response in their sector.
The Apprenticeship Council examine any proposals arising in the context of identified skills needs. All apprenticeship proposals go through a rigorous evaluation process which is led by the Council, and approval is subject to the application meeting a prescribed set of requirements as set out in the handbook and guidance document on Developing a National Apprenticeship which may be accessed on www.apprenticeship.ie.
I understand from SOLAS that an expression of interest in developing an apprenticeship in barbering has already been received and they are engaging with the proposer in the matter. However, a formal proposal has not been received by the Apprenticeship Council to date.
