asked the Minister for Labour whether he is aware that there is an increasing tendency to employ school leavers in positions supposedly of apprenticeship grade from which no qualification is gained and that young people so employed are dismissed before their 20th year; and what action he proposes to take in this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment of School Leavers.
55.
I am not so aware. On the contrary, I am satisfied that the number of worthwhile job opportunities for school leavers has increased substantially in the past ten years or so as a result of the Government's efforts to expand economic activity.
What check, if any, is being maintained on the situation of young people in dead-end jobs who are being let go before they can achieve adult status and an adult's salary — or is the Minister merely speaking as a propagandist for his party?
I am speaking from information available to me from people who keep "tabs" on the situation and have knowledge of it.
Who are the people?
The Apprenticeship Board. If the Deputy has a specific case in mind, I should like to hear it.