Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 May 2022
550. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if a scheme exists for apprentices in the upholstery industry at present; if so, if he will provide details of same; if not, if this is an area that is being looked at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27955/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraApprenticeship is a demand driven educational and training programme which aims to develop the skills of an apprentice in order to meet the needs of industry and the labour market. The development of new apprenticeships is employer-led, with consortia comprising employer groups and educational providers coming together to identify a skills need and appropriate apprenticeship response in their sector. There is no apprenticeship for the upholstery industry at present and officials in my Department are not aware of any such apprenticeship in development or being considered.
A defined process and structure for employers to become engaged in the apprenticeship process is in place. It is open to any industry that wishes to explore options for developing an apprenticeship to bring a proposal forward. The SOLAS Guidance Document for Submitting an Initial Proposal for a New National Apprenticeship together with their Handbook on Developing a National Apprenticeship provide an overview of the key features of new apprenticeships, including sectoral engagement and collaboration among enterprises and other stakeholders in the relevant industry. These publications are available on www.apprenticeship.ie.
There are currently 65 apprenticeship programmes on offer: 25 craft programmes and 40 programmes introduced since 2016. Eight new programmes were launched over 2020 and 2021, despite the pandemic; Arboriculture, Equipment Systems Engineer, Healthcare Assistant, Principal Engineer – Professional Doctorate, Recruitment Executive, Sales, Scaffolding , Supply Chain Associate.
In recent months, three further programmes have been launched: Bar Manager, Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician and Transport Operations & Commercial Driving.
