Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We want to grow craft apprenticeships and construction. We have expanded in that regard. There are now 17 programmes across the broad categories of construction, including electrical engineering, which are relevant to the construction sector. We have actually expanded. That includes the plumbing, electrical, geo drilling and scaffolding programmes and so forth.

The numbers who register are increasing. Just because the Deputy said it is getting worse does not mean that is the truth. The number of people registering for construction apprenticeships is on the increase. In 2022, there were 4,797 across the 17 programmes. That went up to close to 5,000 in 2023 and, so far this year, 1,322 apprentices have registered, a rate that will lead to a further annual increase in 2024. From 2022 to 2024, craft construction apprenticeships have been on the increase. That is the reality.

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