Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. According to the Irish Hotels Federation and the Restaurants Association of Ireland, there is a shortage of kitchen staff and other staff in the hospitality sector. The Minister of State has indicated that as apprenticeships are being reviewed, there may be scope to work with the tourism, food and hospitality industries. Does that confirm the need for what I am requesting, an integrated apprenticeship-style course? There is a gap between FETAC level 4 and level 5. Representatives of the Irish Hotels Federation were in Buswells Hotel today. They have said they are discussing the matter with SOLAS and that the problem is recognised. However, the Minister of State's response does not seem to indicate that.

Emphasising the shortage, many chefs are being brought into the country because restaurants do not have the chefs. While there may be chefs in the kitchen, why can we not train our own people where there is a skills shortage?

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