Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 June 2017
60. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered reviewing the current training and education structures in the tourism sector with a view to considering the establishment of a distinct specialised training service for those who work or intend to work in the tourism industry, including chefs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29959/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Education and Skills has overall responsibility for skills development policy generally across all sectors, including hospitality and tourism, and oversees the bulk of the required education and training delivered nationally through the mainstream higher and further education and training sectors.
There are no plans to establish a new training organisation or other oversight body for the tourism and hospitality sector specifically. Rather, projected skills demands across the economy are being addressed through a combination of measures involving various key stakeholders.
For its part, Fáilte Ireland provides some complementary tourism-related business development and training supports in line with its responsibility for encouraging, promoting and supporting tourism as a leading indigenous component of the Irish economy.
Furthermore, in line with my Department's Tourism Action Plan 2016-2018, Fáilte Ireland is committed to working with the tourism industry and the wider education and training sector to implement recommendations relating to the hospitality sector in the report of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN). In this regard, Fáilte Ireland participates in the Hospitality Skills Oversight Group, which oversees skills development and promotion in the sector, including monitoring the implementation of the EGFSN recommendations.
With specific regard to chef training, Fáilte Ireland is playing a leading role in the development of a culinary apprenticeship programme through its participation, together with industry stakeholders, on the consortium collaborating on its development. I am pleased to say that good progress is being made in the development of the apprenticeship programme and it is expected that the first intake of apprentices will commence in the autumn.
