Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I should assure the Deputy that all regions have seen employment growth. Under our regional enterprise strategy, we are very determined there will be further improvements and there is now an opportunity for all regions to participate in shaping a plan for their region. In terms of the apprenticeship Bill, I understand the Minister of State, Deputy English, hopes to bring this forward this summer but, as the Ceann Comhairle probably knows, applications have already been received and are being assessed by an interim group so that apprenticeship needs are proceeding ahead of the Bill.

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