Ms Siobhán Dean:

Biopharmachem Ireland has been quite lucky in where we came in the process because we were able to learn from our colleagues within the medtech sector in IBEC. We launched our programme just last week comprising the higher certificate in science, that is, a level six lab technician, and the ordinary bachelor of science degree, that is, a level seven analytical scientist. It is unique to our sector. Of the scientists in our sector, 100% of the staff have a third level qualification, so it is unique to our industry.

It is a key point that it was industry led. The need came from the report of the expert group on future skills needs of 2016. We say we came fast to the market, but it still took two years by the time we got industry together, looked at our needs, went for approval, got funding and then the whole process of going on to those 12 steps, to get the programme launched. We were very successful in turning that around within nine months, once we got approval, but it is a balancing act of trying to get up through the snakes and ladders, as Mr. Donohoe mentioned. Quality is of the utmost importance, as is the ability to progress on to levels eight and nine within the sector.

The other key thing which made this very successful is that it is not developed only for the biopharma industry. It will hopefully also span out into the food sector and the diagnostic side of the medtech sector as well.

I would also like to highlight the representation of women within our programme. The programme that we launched is very new. Our first class was started in October and we are looking to increase those numbers from a first class of 16. We are looking to bring those numbers up to 100 by this time next year. Of those involved in this programme, 64% were women, so I think we will support that.

Progression is very important for the sector, and the ability of those people to progress into further programmes after they come off the apprenticeship.