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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 29 Jun 1994

Vol. 444 No. 6

Written Answers. - Apprentice Recruitment.

Brendan McGahon

Ceist:

17 Mr. McGahon asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if the numbers of apprentices recruited are up to the desirable levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

While the intake of apprentices varies from year to year there has been a trend of reducing numbers over the last few years. This downward trend is of concern as it could lead to shortages of skilled workers as the predicted growth in the economy is realised.

A number of meetings have taken place with the CIF to impress on them the need for its members to be conscious of their future requirements in so far as apprentices are concerned. I have asked the CIF and FÁS to examine ways of dealing with the problem and I am consulting with all of the semi-State bodies regarding the possibility of increasing the number of apprenticeships in these areas.
TheProgramme for Competitiveness and Work commits the Government, in consultation with relevant interests, to examine ways of making it a condition of public sector construction contracts that an agreed number of apprentices be employed on such contracts. I have also taken this matter up with the Department of Finance.
The new standards-based apprenticeship training system will take time to establish itself and FÁS is actively promoting the scheme through its regional offices at present. In view of the lead-time for training apprentices I would urge employers to focus not just on their immediate needs but take account of likely future needs in deciding on their apprenticeship recruitment levels.
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