Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023
67. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development about the internships, apprenticeships and graduate schemes run by her Department; if any of these are focused in the green economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41183/23]
View answerMy Department fully supports the roll out of the Public Service Apprenticeship Recruitment Plan and is currently examining what Apprenticeship schemes would be appropriate to take part in.
The Department of Rural and Community Development places a lot of importance on programmes which can provide pathways for people in marginalised groups to join the workforce. For example, two WAM (Willing Able Mentoring programme for people with disabilities) graduates have recently commenced placements in the Department. The Department is also engaging with colleagues in the Department of Justice in relation to the Traveller and Roma Internship Programme for the Civil Service.
These programmes do not have a specific focus on the green economy. However the Department established its Climate Unit in September 2021, bringing a renewed focus to climate action matters across the organisation, and enabling a strengthened contribution to cross-Government climate matters such as the green economy.
In addition, the Department actively participates on the Inter-Departmental Structures progressing the cross-Government Climate agenda, including the Climate Action Unit Network, the Climate Communications Coordination Committee and the Climate Communications Working Group.
