Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
191. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the current number of apprentice carpenters in the Defence Forces; and the supports available to those who are required to temporarily relocate for the academic portion of said apprenticeship. [47891/23]
View answerThe military authorities have advised that there are no apprentice carpenters in the Defence Forces. Thirteen personnel in the Permanent Defence Force are currently registered in the carpentry stream of the Defence Force Trainee Technician Scheme. Seven personnel qualified through this scheme during 2023. The trainees undertake “on the Job” work experience and training within academic/training institutions. Trainees that attend an academic/training institution that is not within a reasonable distance of their home address, are accommodated in the nearest barracks and meals are provided there, or paid for when off base. Where military accommodation is not within a reasonable distance, hotel or bed & breakfast accommodation is organised with subsistence claims covered as part of the training.
