Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

Redundancies have occurred and approximately 950 apprentices have presented themselves to FÁS in recent months. FÁS is very conscious of this issue and we want to retain the skills net. There is not much point investing a great deal of time, effort and money in training people to trade level and have them fail in the final few months prior to obtaining their accreditation. FÁS is putting measures in place and the CIF is also working closely with the body. I accept and acknowledge many trades people are non-nationals and they may move elsewhere. We do not want a scenario in a few years when the economy evolves and construction picks up in other areas under the national development plan with funding for capital projects where there is a scarcity of young trained trades people.

Accreditation is an issue. If apprentices can travel abroad, there must be a recognised accreditation board in the country concerned. Those who travel to countries with a recognised accreditation system, acceptable to Ireland, should be encouraged.

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