Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2024
765. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the timeline for publishing the Action Plan in response to the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs report on modern methods of construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16650/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraA key government priority is to ensure that we have world-leading skills in the economy to ensure a sustainable and equitable economy in the future. The construction sector is no exception.
Greater adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), an umbrella term for a range of innovative construction processes, is a key pillar of the Government’s approach to increasing innovation and achieving productivity gains in the delivery of housing.
MMC will promote the diversity of career opportunities in the sector, including new and emerging careers. This Department will work with partners to ensure that there is provision of relevant specialist training for emerging MMC skills requirements.
To identify and quantify projected future MMC skills requirements, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) have commissioned research assessing needs across the industry over coming years, and will make recommendations on appropriate responses from the tertiary system and industry.
On completion of the EGFSN’s research – which is expected in May 2024 - this Department will develop an action plan for delivery in Q3 2024.
