Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 December 2021
472. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of apprentices on waiting lists to access off-the-job training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62680/21]
View answer477. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of apprentices waiting to assess off the job training in each county in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62777/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 472 and 477 together.
The COVID-related waiting list for off-the-job training places for craft apprentices is being addressed, underpinned by a Government investment of €37 million (€20M capital investment in 2021 supported by a €17M allocation in Budget 2022).
There are now 8,181 apprentices waiting for assignment to off-the-job training, down from 12,000 in August 2021. A breakdown by parent ETB is provided in the attachment.
In addition to those waiting for assignment, 3,143 craft apprentices have been assigned to commence a phase of off-the-job training during December and January. Those who have been waiting the longest are being prioritised. Registrations to craft apprenticeships remain strong with 5,934 craft apprentices registered year to date, and these apprentices must also be accommodated.
SOLAS, the HEA and education and training providers are continuing to work to ensure that craft apprentices are facilitated to complete their apprenticeship in as rapid a manner as is possible. In addition to investment in increased capacity across providers of craft apprentice off-the-job training, a number of reform measures have been agreed and are being implemented for the purposes of clearing the lists. These include changed delivery structures for Phase 2 off-the-job training which is facilitating a third intake of apprentices per annum and an opt-in rapid employer assessment which is being piloted at Phase 7 (on-the-job) for those apprentices who have completed Phase 6 and who have spent more than four years in their apprenticeship.
Further measures are being explored within the context of ensuring that all learning outcomes and quality assurance procedures remain in place to ensure that the integrity of the end qualification is maintained.
