Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 February 2022
580. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the extent to which he has worked on clearing Covid-19-related backlogs in apprenticeship as part of climate action No. 222 in the climate action plan’s annex of actions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4325/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Climate Action Plan 2021 provides a detailed plan for taking decisive action to achieve a 51% reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and setting us on a path to reach net-zero emissions by no later than 2050, as committed to in the Programme for Government and set out in the Climate Act 2021.
It will put Ireland on a more sustainable path; cut emissions; create a cleaner, greener economy and society; and protect Ireland from the devastating consequences of climate change.
The Plan lists the actions needed to deliver on our climate targets and makes Ireland one of the most ambitious countries in the world in this regard. The Government will continue to support the development of the skills necessary to further Ireland’s climate agenda.
The COVID-related waiting list for off-the-job training places for craft apprentices is being addressed, underpinned by Government investment of €37 million (€20 million capital investment in 2021 supported by a €17 million allocation in Budget 2022).
At the end of December 8,797 apprentices were waiting for assignment to off-the-job training, down from 12,000 in August. Those who have been waiting the longest are being prioritised for placements. Registrations to craft apprenticeships remain strong and these apprentices must also be accommodated.
SOLAS, the HEA and education and training providers are continuing to work to ensure that craft apprentices are facilitated to complete their apprenticeship in as rapid a manner as is possible.
In addition to investment in increased capacity across providers of craft apprentice off-the-job training, a number of reform measures have been agreed and are being implemented for the purposes of clearing the lists. These include changed delivery structures for Phase 2 off-the-job training which is facilitating a third intake of apprentices per annum, and an opt-in rapid employer assessment which is being piloted at Phase 7 (on-the-job) for those apprentices who have completed Phase 6 and who have spent more than four years in their apprenticeship.
