Laura Harmon (Labour)

My initial questions are for QQI. Representatives from unions, ICTU and student unions appeared before us last week. They raised concerns that consortium-type apprenticeships might lack the same robust governance we see in craft apprenticeships. Could the witnesses expand on how standards can be met so that all apprenticeships have the same levels of checks and balances? I have a wider question for all the witnesses concerning pay for apprentices and whether they should have the minimum wage. Could the witnesses comment on that? Would that ensure more retention?