Mr. Andrew Brownlee:

The point about micro-credentials is important. We have agreed with QQI a fast-track approach to making sure courses with micro-credentials can be developed quickly. One of the courses we are bringing to its panel next month is a level 4 course in sustainability. The idea is that this can be rolled out across all out FET courses so every FET learner is equipped with environmental awareness, green skills and an understanding of sustainability. We are telling them to be the kinds of agents of change we need for tomorrow. That is the big ambition in our FET strategy and in the programme for Government. It is difficult for me to comment on funding because I work for a State agency. Part of the reason for this new Department is that we are trying to think about funding for a tertiary level. The thinking behind the new national apprenticeship office is not just about funding FET over here and higher education over there but about making it much more aligned and joined up for apprenticeships. Dedicated funding to support those pathways between further education and higher education is critical to moving things forward.