Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will deliver that message to the Minister of State, Deputy Damien English, for whom I am deputising.

Under EN 1090, there are requirements for conformity assessment of structural components which involves several steps that culminate in certification by a third party, known as a notified inspection body. In Ireland, the certification role is performed by the National Standards Authority of Ireland.

The Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through Enterprise Ireland, the LEOs and in conjunction with the National Standards Authority of Ireland, have held a series of four general information workshops about the requirements under the construction products regulations at various locations. The role of the LEOs’ network is to provide guidance and assistance to small and micro-firms and to signpost these firms to other State agencies or bodies where appropriate.

One of the issues that came up at the information workshops was that of training courses for steel fabricators. In this regard, I understand the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation has been in contact with the Department of Education and Skills about the SOLAS-administered metal fabrication apprenticeship programme. I know that Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has a particular interest in apprenticeships. In the context of the SOLAS-administered metal fabrication apprenticeship programme, all apprentices who undertake it are made aware of the regulatory requirements. Skillnets, an employer-led training facilitator funded by the Department of Education and Skills through the national training fund, provides a number of training programmes through two of its training networks. The courses include a BA in engineering and a responsible welding co-ordinator and visual inspection programme. It is open to companies to explore with their local education and training board whether relevant training can be provided, usually be on a contracted basis.

A key feature of the further education and training strategy is ensuring there are close connections between ETBs and enterprise in order that the needs of enterprise, as well as individuals, can be anticipated and factored in to the annual service plans for further education and training. As the Department of Education and Skills reforms the further education and training sector, it is confident that enhanced collaboration between enterprise and the education and training sector will ensure further education and training provision will be relevant to the needs of enterprise. It may also be beneficial for companies to explore what economies of scale might be achieved for companies seeking upskilling in the same areas. I will convey the Deputy's concerns to the Minister of State, Deputy Damien English, and ask that he get back to him directly.

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