Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2022
728. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will respond to matters raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding greenkeeping in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14812/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraApprenticeships are available in many sectors such as manufacturing, hospitality, construction, and retail. The continued expansion of the apprenticeship system into new sectors of the economy such as agriculture and horticulture, together with the opportunity of online and blended learning, will bring real opportunities for learners and employers throughout the country.
This is a key priority under the Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021-2025, which aims to increase annual registrations to 10,000 across an increasing range of programmes, in line with skills demands within the economy.
Proposed amendments to the Industrial Training Act, 1967, to widen the potential scope of new apprenticeship programmes are included under the General Scheme of Higher Education Authority Bill 2022. This will facilitate the development of programmes such as greenkeeping. The Bill was published in January of this year and is currently at committee stage.
The Deputy should note that regarding the area of sports turf management that there is currently an apprenticeship in development in the area of Sports Turf Management. Subject to the legislative changes referenced above, this will be able to be considered under the usual development process.
