Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I asked that question because I thought evening provision could help. It is a fact that these young fellas are giving up. I have even had employers on to me asking what is wrong and why college placements cannot be hurried on because this is delaying their apprenticeship and making their course way longer. Employers need apprentices. This fella in Glenflesk was told a month ago he will be waiting 18 months. That is not good enough. We will lose these young people who we need. We cannot afford to see them emigrating to other countries where they may get their apprenticeship and become qualified much easier. I ask the Minister of State to ensure this does not continue and the problem is sorted out.

We appreciate the fact that more young people are going for the trades because we certainly need them. Many of the fellas we have are getting old and worn out. Many of them are still working at 70 years of age and no longer able for it. I ask the Minister of State to hurry on and deal with this problem

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