Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
1054. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the projected timeframe for the completion of an apprenticeship (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39558/23]
View answerWork is under way to increase the level of training capacity across the apprenticeship system. In addition, an accelerated on-the-job process to reduce time gaps between off-the-job and on-the-job phases to assist with apprenticeship progression towards qualification is being implemented. At this stage it is not possible to provide a timeline for completion, but it is a priority to further grow the training capacity to ensure apprentices are trained within their minimum time period.
Under the Further Education and Training Act (2013), SOLAS has statutory responsibility for planning, funding, and co-ordinating Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland. My officials have referred your query to SOLAS and they have advised the applicant is likely to be called for Phase 4 in early January.
