Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

Yes, I can do that. Deputies are aware that SOLAS has not yet been established on a statutory footing. It is designed to replace FÁS. It will come to the Cabinet in the next few weeks. I will discuss the matter with the Minister, Deputy Quinn. I understand that some industry groups will make a proposal with regard to training through SOLAS. Having said that, much of the entry-level training can and should be done largely on the job. I do not think it is necessary to go to college to learn how to cut up a cucumber or something like that. A great deal of the training can be done on an earn and learn basis, mostly in the workplace.

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