Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I ask the Leader to draw to the attention of the Ministers responsible the challenge facing qualified people, not just graduates but others, of the lack of internship. For many years we in Ireland had this tradition of internship where people who were qualified could work in State organisations and learn their skill - I believe the buzzword is upskilling - to the extent that they were qualified to do the job and, with the experience, were able to step into such jobs subsequently. I was not aware that in recent times for various reasons State bodies are saying they do not or cannot do that anymore. One of the reasons given for this is insurance costs and another is that unions object to it. It sounds as though these are excuses.

This is something that will not cost any money but that will provide opportunities, for instance, to economists who have graduated from the universities. There is a lack of economists in the Department of Finance. These are bright young people who could work in the Department of Finance but who for some reason or other are not being given the chance. In other European countries what I suggest takes place continuously. There must be some reason why it is not taking place in Ireland. I ask the Leader to draw to the attention of the various responsible Ministers the opportunities for upskilling in this community.