Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

To respond to the changing circumstances in the construction sector, the FÁS board established a subgroup last year to look at the impact of FÁS construction programmes on the changes in employment trends in the construction sector. The subgroup has been examining this issue as a matter of priority and is in the process of completing detailed research at present. It is expected the subgroup shortly will present its interim report with recommendations to the FÁS board.

New house construction is a labour-intensive sector and the latest data show some decline in the level of employment in the construction sector during the second half of last year. For the year as a whole, Ireland's unemployment rate averaged 4.5% as had been forecast. Approximately 48,000 houses will be built in 2008. However in the longer term, forecasts suggest a continued strong need for building craftspersons. Forecasts published by FÁS in conjunction with the Economic and Social Research Institute in August last year predicted that 90,000 to 100,000 skilled building workers would be employed in 2012, compared to a total of 85,000 in 2005. The subgroup also has consulted widely, both internally and externally, including such bodies as the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, the Construction Industry Federation and the institutes of technology.

The number of new apprentices recruited into the building industry declined in 2007. However in the longer term, forecasts suggest a continued strong need for building craftspersons. The subgroup is of the opinion that any downturn in apprenticeship registrations should open up opportunities to improve the skills of existing craftspeople and low-skilled construction workers in other areas.

At present FÁS, through its employment services, also is engaged in identifying any redundant craftspeople and apprentices and providing focused supports to them. FÁS also is in discussion with the CIF to identify possible courses for redundant craftspersons in the so-called wet trades, such as for example, listed building restoration skills, stoneworking etc. Moreover, there is active engagement with the unemployed after three months on the live register to assist them make progress towards employment, training or active labour market programmes.

The normal full range of FÁS services of course also is available. In the delivery of such services, FÁS liaises with other relevant agencies such as Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, the city and county enterprise boards and the Department of Social and Family Affairs. FÁS also works closely with the agencies to identify and support individuals who wish to start their own businesses.

Over the period of the National Development Plan 2007-2013, the Government will invest €7.7 billion in public funds to support training and skills development. This is a significant increase when compared with the level of spending over the previous seven-year period. The current level of investment reflects the importance the Government attaches to maintaining an educated, skilled and adaptable workforce in Ireland.

The Government also is committed to implementing the national skills strategy and soon will initiate an implementation process.

See this speech in context