I understand that Apprentices, who have previous trade related work experience and or trade related national or international qualifications, may apply for a training phase exemption up to and including Phase 5 of an apprenticeship programme by completing an Exemptions Application Form and submitting with a portfolio of evidence to FÁS for consideration.
The recently announced Government "Action Plan for Jobs" confirmed a commitment to review our apprenticeship model this year. The intention is to provide an updated model of training that will deliver the necessary skilled workforce to service the needs of a rapidly changing economy. My Department has begun work on a paper setting out the various issues, including those referred to in the Deputy's question, which will form the basis of a consultation process, as part of this overall review.