Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 February 2014
321. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which provision is being made directly by his Department or through the aegis of industry to provide adequate apprenticeships to meet economic requirements at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9687/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Action Plan for Jobs initiative a review of the Irish Apprenticeship system commenced in 2013 to determine whether the current model of apprenticeship should be retained, adapted or replaced, taking into account the needs of learners, employers, the economy and the need for cost effectiveness into the future.
An independent review group was established and the group's report was submitted to my Department in December 2013 and published on the Department's website in January 2014. The implementation of the report's recommendations will now be considered in the context of establishing a framework for a future expanded apprenticeship system. Initially, this will involve Departmental engagement with SOLAS, the Higher Education Authority, Quality and Qualifications Ireland, representatives of business and trade unions and representatives of providers of further and higher education.
