Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)

A significant number of jobs have been lost or continue to be under threat. In the context of the importance of the manufacturing sector, particularly upskilling, is FÁS the only agency that will be used? As Deputy Varadkar noted, how will we meet targets if FÁS is constrained by a curtailment of numbers because of the public sector recruitment embargo?

There is no argument that increasing the numbers being upskilled is vital. How will the objectives pan out? How will the €7.7 billion be spent and what agencies will be involved? Is it not time to show some ingenuity, innovation and initiative in this regard to ensure the targets for upskilling, which are fundamental to our long-term well-being, are met? FÁS should be given a wider remit and beefed up so targets can be achieved.

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