Mary Moran (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for attending the committee. Their presentations contained a wealth of information. I wish to ask about the learning outcomes and the need for more knowledge for younger people. One of the suggestions was to bring it in for 13 year olds, so do the witnesses envisage that being so from first year in education? What would be the effect of bringing it in prior to secondary education? I am not too sure of the effects of that. Are we labelling people too young?

I taught in a vocational school for 16 years so I know the value of that type of education. I certainly cut my teeth teaching in the adult education sector, which was brilliant. I could not praise them enough because I sampled all different kinds of education, which was the best way to get experience in the teaching profession.

Looking at the executive summary, it is unbelievable that of those who are unclear about the meaning of vocational education, 21% do not know what it is and 5% think it refers to religious education to become a priest or nun. I am looking at the whole direction of what is vocational and the need to get the idea out and educate people on the information, advice and guidance. We are told parents have the greatest role followed by guidance counsellors. Is there more scope to inform parents?

What Mr. Moriarty was saying about employers at local level and what is relevant for apprenticeships was excellent. Is there anything happening structurally in local areas on that? I know what is happening in my area in terms of large employers, but what about the small business where there is one person employed and one apprentice? What scope is there for them to get involved in the consultation process?