Education Committee to explore ways to increase uptake of apprenticeships, Caranua operations

Representatives from the following organisations will attend:

• SOLAS
• Skillnet Ireland
• Technological Higher Education Association (THEA)
• The Department of Education and Skills

“For some young people considering third-level education options, the opportunity to pursue an apprenticeship or traineeship can carry an unwarranted stigma, a connotation that their `best’ option is seek a university place instead,” said Committee Chair Fiona O’Loughlin TD.

“The Committee is eager to explore the latest thinking, in Ireland and abroad, on ways to encourage second-level school leavers to give apprenticeships and traineeships a fresh look, because Ireland is experiencing real skills shortages in some areas and those who do pursue these opportunities can find an in-demand profession waiting for them,” Deputy O’Loughlin said.

“Separately, the Committee also will discuss with departmental officials the operation of Caranua, the independent state body established to provide support services to people who experienced physical, psychological and sexual abuse in Irish residential institutions as children,” Deputy O’Loughlin said.

The meeting in Committee Room 4 can be viewed live here.