Dr. Anne-Marie Butler:

Our sportsturf course commenced in Kildalton Agricultural College this Monday. There are 23 very eager apprentices on it, which is great to see. Ten horticulture apprentices commenced in the Botanic Gardens approximately three weeks ago and are focusing on landscaping. The level 6 agriculture apprenticeship is for farm technicians. It will commence on 13 December and be based in Clonakilty Agricultural College. As of yesterday evening, we had seven approved apprentices, but I was at a stakeholder meeting this morning and there was considerable interest, particularly from the pig sector.