Laura Harmon (Labour) | Oireachtas source

The student representatives mentioned how we can diversify those who access apprenticeships. Would they like to expand on that? We have had some discussion this morning about the emphasis placed on university education versus apprenticeships. I see that as an issue. Ultimately it should be about what somebody wishes to do with their lives and what they are skilled at and about valuing that equally. That would also help with dropout rates where people feel they can do the courses that best fit them. In terms of diversifying those who enter apprenticeships, how would they look at that? Do the representatives have any perspective from their own unions and those they represent? Is it predominantly those in university or is it a good mix of both?